Hayato Inamura departs airport in Japan on his way to Paradise

It now looks all but confirmed that Japanese defender Hayato Inamura is heading to Celtic, with a telling social media post fuelling speculation that the young Albirex Niigata player is bound for Paradise…

The 21-year-old was pictured with the words “La Familia – With these words, I set off into the world,” in a clear nod of gratitude to his now former club, where “La Familia” is often used to describe the close bond between players, staff and supporters.

“LA FAMILIA”
この言葉と共に、世界へ旅立ちました。 pic.twitter.com/7wULiaDIwW

— と (@toshiaki_desu) July 2, 2025

For Celtic fans, the sentiment will strike a familiar chord – and the inference is clear: Inamura is ready to swap one footballing family for another, as he appears Glasgow-bound to join La Familia Celtic.

Inamura is a left-footed central defender, typically playing as the left-sided centre-half in a back four, but his mobility and technical profile also make him more than capable of deputising at left-back – a versatility which will no doubt appeal to Brendan Rodgers, who has spoken of the need for adaptable players for in his system.

Standing at around 6ft, the Japan U21 international is comfortable on the ball, reads the game well, and has earned praise in the J1 League for his calmness under pressure and clean, progressive passing. With Celtic regularly operating with a high defensive line, Inamura’s recovery pace and positional discipline could prove invaluable. It may well be a shrewd, forward-thinking signing that fits the club’s long-term model, particularly with an eye on future European campaigns. Here’s an interesting Scouting report that’s well worth a read.

Reports suggest Inamura is now en route to the UK to complete his medical, and if all goes to plan, he could be unveiled in the coming days – potentially becoming Celtic’s fifth signing of the summer window. The Hoops have already welcomed back Kieran Tierney in a blockbuster homecoming, secured Swedish international winger Benjamin Nygren, snapped up young striker Callum Osmand from Fulham, and brought in Ross Doohan to fill the third-choice keeper role following Scott Bain’s departure.

Callum Osmand signs for Celtic. Photo Celtic FC

Hayato Inamura might not yet be a household name among the Celtic faithful, but by all accounts, he is a player of immense promise and humility – perhaps an understated talent ready to earn his place. If the green light comes soon, Celtic Park may be greeting its newest Bhoy before the week is out.

Niall J

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