Celtic are on the verge of extending Reo Hatate’s contract. The Japanese midfielder has been the subject of much speculation and scrutiny from various quarters for the way he has started the season to date as he is nowhere near the form of last year.
The close-season was dominated with stories about potential bids coming in for Reo and many thought Brighton were set to bid before the closing of business on 1 September.
The player has been injured too after coming on against Aberdeen at Pittodrie and finding himself picking up an issue just like his comrade, Cameron Carter-Vickers. Hatate has since returned to the side in the past few weeks and has shown flashes of the player we have all come to know and love for his phenomenal vision and deft touch and passing ability.
Now, according to a report by Stephen McGowan of the Scottish Daily Mail, suggests that the midfielder is close to agreeing a contract extension with the Parkhead club. It would be a major coup for the club if we can get this one over he line in the coming days as we look to the down another crucial asset on a long-term deal with improved terms, subsequently protecting his value in the process.
Anthony Ralston signed a contract extension also today, with the club announcing the academy product has signed on until 2027. It seems the powers that be are hell-bent in ensuring we maintain the high-level value of our current squad. Such is the modern world, most of these players will move on after reaching the end of their natural cycle and development in Glasgow’s East End. But that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t plan ahead and secure the appreciation of them all for that eventual day.
Fantastic news this one.
Paul Gillespie
