In The Know reporter reveals Hatate update

Celtic are reported to have opened talks with Reo Hatate over a new contract.

The midfielder moved from Kawasaki Frontale in January 2022 and made an instant impact with a stunning goal away to Hearts followed quickly by a double in the Glasgow Derby.

It was quickly obvious that Celtic had picked up a bargain for under £1m but Hatate’s contract will be in line with his arrival status as a decent prospect but far short of the top earners.

Liel Abada recently signed a new deal following the close season extensions for Callum McGregor, Kyogo Furuhashi and Reo Hatate.

With playing in the SPFL not the most attractive proposition for signing targets it makes sense to ensure that the players already at the club are being well rewarded.

The reliable Stephen McGowan of the Daily Mail reports:

CELTIC have opened talks with midfielder Reo Hatate over an extension to his Parkhead contract.

Currently under contract until 2026, the champions wanted the Japanese international to join winger Liel Abada in committing to a new deal on the final day of the transfer window.

Unsettled by interest from Saudi Arabia and France, Hatate asked for discussions to be placed on hold until the summer window closed. And Mail Sport understands conversations finally got under way this week.

Hatate’s contract runs until 2026, the same time as Abada’s deal was due to expire. By adding a year on alongside a pay hike both parties can be satisfied, in the summer Celtic showed with Jota that if the right offer comes in they are happy to sell players.