Celtic are planning a move for Blackburn Rovers attacker Ryoya Morishita after making a very late approach for the Japan international during the summer transfer window.
Alan Nixon reports that the Hoops had made contact over the 29-year-old, with the clubs already discussing a loan deal for Reo Hatate before the midfielder ultimately completed his move to Burnley.
Morishita is primarily an attacking midfielder but can operate on either wing, giving Celtic another versatile option in the final third.
The Japan international has made an impressive start to the season with Blackburn, registering one goal and two assists across league and cup competition.
He enjoyed a productive campaign last term too, scoring five goals and providing 10 assists.
Morishita has three caps for Japan and has established himself as an important player for Blackburn since joining the Championship club.
However, Celtic could face a difficult negotiation if they decide to step up their interest.
Blackburn are reportedly not willing to sell the player, meaning it could take a sizeable offer to convince them to part with the 29-year-old.
The potential move would also represent something of a departure from Celtic’s recruitment strategy this summer.
The Hoops have largely focused on youth and potential, bringing in players in their late teens and early 20s with significant room for development and, importantly, future resale value.
Morishita, at 29, does not fit that profile.
But Celtic’s late interest suggests Martin O’Neill could be prepared to look beyond that model for a player who can make an immediate impact.
As the January window creeps closer, the Hoops may look to make a move for the player, with homework on other potential targets starting now too, you’d hope.
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if ,ifs ands were only buts ,absolute crap , we were going to sign this play and that player ,but unless you are thinking dense and devoid of all cognitive abilities follow the money ,20 million up on signings and sales . Stop giving them your money or you are complicit in the destruction of our club