Italian club Udinese are keeping a close eye on Celtic midfielder Reo Hatate and may try to sign him this summer.
The Scottish Sun report that scouts from Udinese were at Celtic Park on April 12 to watch Hatate during the 5-1 win over Kilmarnock. The Japanese midfielder stood out in that game, scoring two goals and playing very well overall.
Hatate, 27, has been a key player for Celtic since he joined from Kawasaki Frontale in early 2022. He has played 140 games for the club, scoring 26 goals and setting up 28 more.
During that time, he’s helped the team win four league titles and two League Cups. He also signed a new contract in September 2023, keeping him at Celtic until 2028. That means the Hoops are in a strong position if anyone wants to buy him.
Udinese are not the only team interested. Clubs from France and Germany are also reportedly following him. But Udinese have made their interest clearer by sending scouts to watch him live.
The Italian side, sitting 12th in Serie A, are planning to make big changes this summer after a poor season. They also tried to sign Motherwell’s Lennon Miller in January, showing they’re looking at Scottish players.
Celtic fans will hope Hatate stays, especially after such a strong season. But interest from other clubs is growing, and there could be offers when the transfer window opens. For now, though, Celtic hold all the cards and won’t let him go easily.
