A Celtic striker target has receoved a call-up to his national team, despite a noticeable dip in form this season.
Celtic are reportedly monitoring Kawasaki Frontale striker Shin Yamada as Brendan Rodgers looks to strengthen his attack this summer.
The 25‑year‑old Japanese international, who hit the back of the net 19 times in the 2024 J1 League, has experienced a significant goal drought in 2025, going 13 matches without a strike since scoring on March 29.
Despite his dip in form, Yamada’s been called up to the Japanese national team. It’s key to note, though, that only players from the J-League have been called up, and Hatate and Maeda won’t be appearing against Hong Kong, China and South Korea. [JFA]
Rodgers, keen to add depth up front following the departure of fellow countryman Kyogo, may view Yamada as a low‑risk, high‑upside option.
Elsewhere in the J-League, Celtic are closing in on a deal for Hayato Inamura. The defender is set to arrive in the UK in the coming days to complete a medical ahead of his £250,000 switch.
It’s thought that Celtic may look at loaning the 23-year-old out when he puts pen to paper, in the hope that he can adapt to the levels which Celtic require. His fee is a low-risk, high-reward.
