Reo Hatate Exit Rumour Emerges From Japan

Reo Hatate has been linked with a possible return to Japan as speculation over his Celtic future continues.

The midfielder has been the subject of growing transfer talk this summer, with questions around whether he could be one of the players to move on as Martin O’Neill reshapes his squad.

Now, a rumour circulating on Japanese social media has claimed Kashima Antlers are keeping tabs on Hatate’s situation.

The claim, shared by Balón de Japón on X, suggests the J1 champions could look at Hatate as a midfield option, with the move also offering the chance of a reunion with Toru Oniki.

Oniki previously worked with Hatate at Kawasaki Frontale, where the midfielder made his name before moving to Celtic.

At this stage, it is important to stress that this appears to be early speculation rather than anything advanced.

There has been no suggestion of a formal bid, and Celtic supporters will know that Hatate’s name has been linked with moves away before.

However, the Japanese angle is an interesting one.

Hatate enjoyed huge success in his homeland before joining Celtic in January 2022. His move to Glasgow proved to be one of the major success stories of Ange Postecoglou’s recruitment, with the midfielder quickly becoming a key part of the side.

His technical quality, sharp passing and ability to play between the lines helped Celtic dominate domestically during his best spells at the club.

But the last couple of seasons have not always been straightforward.

Injuries, dips in form and changing circumstances at Celtic have all contributed to uncertainty around his long-term future. When fit and firing, Hatate remains one of the most gifted players in the squad, but there is a growing feeling that this summer could bring major change.

Kashima would offer a familiar environment and a return to the J1 League, while working again with Oniki would be a clear attraction if interest was to become serious.

From Celtic’s point of view, any exit would have to make financial sense.

Hatate still has value, and the club would not be expected to allow a player of his quality to leave cheaply. With Champions League qualifiers ahead and a squad rebuild already expected, losing an experienced midfielder would also create another gap needing filled.

There is also the question of whether Hatate himself would be ready to return to Japan at this stage of his career.

At 28, he may still feel he has more to give in Europe, especially if clubs from stronger leagues are also monitoring his situation.

For now, this one should be treated carefully.

The link to Kashima Antlers is an interesting rumour rather than a confirmed move. But with Hatate’s Celtic future far from certain, and with Oniki now at Kashima, it is easy to see why the story has started to gather attention in Japan.

Celtic supporters will be watching closely to see whether this develops into anything more concrete over the coming weeks.