Celtic look set to add another promising Japanese talent to their ranks, with Kawasaki Frontale striker Shin Yamada reportedly moving closer to a £1.5 million transfer to Parkhead. [SunSport]

The forward has caught the attention of Hoops scouts thanks to his impressive form last season, which saw him finish as the highest Japanese scorer in the J-League. Though he’s had a quieter campaign this term, his recent call-up to the Japanese national squad suggests that big things still lie ahead.

Celtic have steadily strengthened their connections with Japan in recent seasons, following the successful signings of Daizen Maeda, Reo Hatate, Kyogo, and most recently centre-back Hayato Inamura. Yamada would bolster that trend and provide another link between the Premiership and the Japanese top flight into the upcoming campaign.

While Inamura is expected to head out on loan to gain experience, Yamada appears destined to slot straight into Rodgers’ first-team plans. His height, aerial threat, and movement in the box are set to add a new dimension to Celtic’s forward options. With Kyogo departed and competition from attackers such as Callum Osmand and Daizen Maeda, Yamada’s imminent arrival brings fresh excitement and tactical flexibility.

At around £1.5 million, this transfer would represent shrewd business for a player with plenty of upside. Brendan Rodgers has once again shown his willingness to look overseas for talent, and Yamada seems poised to join a growing list of Japanese players making an impact in Glasgow.