Celtic are reportedly closing in on the signing of Hayato Inamura from Albirex Niigata, with Sky Sports’ Anthony Joseph confirming the transfer fee has been set at around £250,000.
The 23-year-old defender is expected to complete the move this week after his club announced his departure to finalise a deal with an overseas side.
While Celtic haven’t officially confirmed the transfer, Inamura is now on his way to the UK and preparing to undergo a medical before putting pen to paper.
It’s a modest fee by modern standards, particularly for a left-footed central defender with first-team experience in the J.League. The fee represents a relatively low-risk investment as Brendan Rodgers looks to add more depth and versatility to his backline.
Albirex Niigata confirmed over the weekend that Inamura had left their squad to complete the necessary procedures for a transfer to an overseas club.
Inamura’s ability to play both as a centre-back and at left-back fits well with Celtic’s current transfer needs. With Kieran Tierney returning and left-back cover still thin, the Japanese defender could offer valuable support in multiple roles next season.
Whether he goes straight into the first-team squad or is initially loaned out remains to be seen.
Celtic have had success in the Japanese market over the last few years, and Inamura is set to become the latest addition to that pipeline. The move now hinges on the completion of his medical and final paperwork.
