Brendan Rodgers has responded to speculation linking Reo Hatate with a move away from Celtic, amid reports that Serie A side Udinese are preparing a bid for the Japanese midfielder this summer.
Hatate, 27, still has two years remaining on his current deal at Parkhead, but interest is mounting from across Europe. Udinese were reportedly scouting the player during Celtic’s 5-1 win over Kilmarnock last month, where Hatate starred with two goals.
Speaking about Hatate’s future, Rodgers praised the midfielder’s quality while also offering insight into his development and potential career trajectory.
“I think for Reo, I can feel for him a little bit, especially in the first few years, there’s been a little bit of inconsistency there.
“There’s absolutely no doubt he’s a big talent. He’s a bit later in age now, even though he’s 27, maybe some clubs think he’s at the wrong end of the asset age, and they tend to go for younger players. But for me, he’s an absolutely outstanding player.
“How he protects the ball, how he’s prepared to play the risk pass. He’s got goals, he can take the ball. I think the challenge for him has been sometimes in that really busy period when there are three games a week, and in that third game, there’s a bit of tiredness that sets in.
“You see him now, especially when there’s one game a week, he’s so good. A really gifted player. It took me a wee while to get inside him and his mind and everything else, but he’s absolutely superb. He’s certainly not underestimated by us because he’s been really, really good this year.”
Rodgers confirmed that discussions with player representatives are due to take place over the coming months, on Celtic TV.
“I think the club will always sit down with the representatives, and I know we’ll be doing that over the course of these coming months with all the players and the negotiations. I’m sure agents will be coming in to see him as well. But yes, Reo’s a really gifted player and this is his fourth season here.”
While Celtic remain in a strong contractual position, Hatate’s form and profile are sure to attract further interest, particularly if he finishes the season strong in pursuit of a domestic Treble.
Whether he stays or goes, the summer will be a defining one for both the player and the club.
He has always seemed to have links away, whether it be down south or further afield, like Germany or Italy. He’s a bit of a late bloomer, too. Starting his football journey later than most, he might see this summer as a great chance to take the next step in his career.
