Reo Hatate transfer situation update as he hopes to leave Celtic this summer
Reo Hatate’s future at Celtic has become one of the key talking points of the club’s summer transfer window, with reports indicating that the Japanese midfielder is now open to leaving after a mixed and frustrating campaign.
Hatate, who joined Celtic from Kawasaki Frontale in 2022, has been an important figure during his time in Glasgow, helping the club win multiple domestic honours and establishing himself as one of the more technically gifted midfielders in the squad. However, his role has become less certain in recent months, with inconsistency and reduced game time contributing to growing speculation about his long-term future.
Recent reports suggest that Hatate has now informed Celtic that he would be willing to move on this summer, with interest from clubs in England and abroad continuing to circulate. While he remains under contract for another couple of years, this summer represents a potential turning point, as Celtic must decide whether to cash in or retain a player who is no longer guaranteed a starting role.
His situation has been influenced by increased competition in midfield and tactical changes within the squad, which have limited his appearances in key fixtures. Some reports indicate that he was left out of crucial matches towards the end of the season, fuelling frustration on both sides and strengthening the feeling that a fresh start may suit player and club alike.
Despite this, Celtic have previously shown reluctance to let him leave without a strong offer, viewing him as a valuable squad member with proven quality in both domestic and European competition. The club’s stance has fluctuated between protecting their asset and preparing for a possible reshaping of the midfield.
If Hatate does depart, Celtic are expected to move quickly for replacements. One name already strongly linked is Go Ahead Eagles midfielder Jakob Breum, who is seen as a potential creative addition capable of playing both centrally and in wider attacking roles. The club have also been monitoring several other midfield and attacking targets across Europe as part of a broader recruitment strategy.
Hatate is not the only player whose future is uncertain, with Celtic set for a significant summer of change. Several first-team players have been linked with exits, while others are attracting interest from abroad. At the same time, the club are preparing for incoming transfers as part of a wider rebuild under the current management structure, with a clear focus on refreshing the squad ahead of domestic and European commitments.
The coming weeks are expected to be decisive, with Celtic’s transfer business likely to shape not only the composition of the squad but also the direction of their campaign next season. Hatate’s situation sits at the centre of that planning—symbolic of a squad in transition, where long-serving players may now be moved on to make space for a new cycle.
Reo Hatate to leave Celtic
