Reo Hatate nears departure from Celtic amid transfer interest

Celtic midfielder Reo Hatate is reportedly nearing an exit from the club as the transfer deadline approaches. The 28-year-old Japan international has expressed a desire to play in one of Europe’s top five leagues, having previously rejected opportunities in the English Championship and the Greek league to pursue a higher level of competition.

Reports suggest West Ham may be the club pursuing a late deal for the dynamic box-to-box midfielder. Hatate has not featured under manager Martin O’Neill this season, having missed a recent match against Falkirk due to a training injury. His departure is expected to create space in the Celtic squad for new midfield recruitment, with the club potentially looking toward players like 19-year-old Joel van den Berg to reshape their midfield following recent departures.