Celtic FC targets Yukinari Sugawara on loan

Celtic FC is reportedly pursuing a move for Japanese defender Yukinari Sugawara, with a loan deal being viewed as an ‘ideal solution’ to address their current squad depth issues. The Scottish club is looking to bolster its right-back position following a hamstring injury to Alistair Johnston, who is expected to be sidelined until at least October.

While Sugawara has been linked with several clubs, including PSV Eindhoven and Werder Bremen, the high transfer fee previously estimated at approximately £6 million (1.1 billion yen) was seen as a potential obstacle. However, Southampton FC is reportedly open to a loan move, which would significantly lower the barrier for Celtic. Sugawara has not featured in official matches for Southampton so far this season, increasing the likelihood of a move before the transfer window closes.