Celtic have made their fifth signing of the summer with the arrival of Japanese defender Hayato Inamura from J-League side Albirex Niigata.
The 23-year-old was unveiled ahead of Celtic’s pre-season opener against Queen’s Park, where he watched from the stands as the Hoops won 1-0. He has been handed the number 25 shirt, famously worn by Japanese icon Shunsuke Nakamura during his time at Parkhead.
✍️🇯🇵 #CelticFC are delighted to announce the signing of Hayato Inamura, who has joined the club on a four-year deal from Japanese side, Albirex Niigata, subject to international clearance.
ようこそ, Hayato!#WelcomeInamura | #CelticFC🍀
— Celtic Football Club (@CelticFC) July 4, 2025
Inamura’s signing continues a productive window for Brendan Rodgers, with the Hoops already bringing in goalkeeper Ross Doohan, returning full-back Kieran Tierney, Swedish forward Benjamin Nygren and Fulham striker Callum Osmand.
While a relative late bloomer by professional standards, Inamura’s rise has been rapid. He only made his professional debut last year with Niigata after progressing through the university system at Toyo University, a pathway that’s increasingly delivering polished, technically sound players from Japan.
Reports suggest a short-term move, either back to Japan or to a European league, is being considered to aid his development and get him up to speed at Celtic.
With Brendan Rodgers focused on strengthening depth across the squad, Inamura adds to the competition in defence ahead of a campaign that will see Celtic challenge domestically and in the Champions League group stage.
