Latest Celtic transfer exit close as club reach 'agreement' to sell misfit for profit after just ONE appearance
The defender will return to his native Japan on a permanent basis this summer
Celtic have reportedly agreed a deal with FC Tokyo to offload forgotten defender Hayato Inamura - just a year after his arrival in Glasgow.
The Japanese full-back managed only one first-team appearance for the Scottish champions before heading back to his homeland on loan in January, just six months after signing a four-year deal.
The Hoops coughed up around £250,000 to secure Inamura’s signature from Albirex Niigata last July and was described by then boss Brendan Rodgers as a young player “full of promise and potential.”
However, he struggled to make an impact on the first-team and according to reports in Japan, Celtic have now struck an agreement with the 24-year-old’s loan club Tokyo to make the move permanent in a deal worth around €1.5m (around £1.3m).
It marks a significant increase on the fee paid to secure his services despite his lack of senior involvement.
Inamura previously voiced his frustration at the lack of chances presented to him during his time at Parkhead, stating: “I didn’t expect it to be so tough to get opportunities. I just want to play regularly and show what I can do.”
Inamura falls short of replicating fellow countryman
Attempting to follow in the footsteps of fellow countryman and Celtic hero Shunsuke Nakamura, the left-sided player was assigned the number 25 jersey upon his arrival.
Explaining his decision to select the number, Inamura stated: “Out of the options I was given, that one really stood out to me. Then obviously regarding Nakamura, I used to imitate his kicking style when I was a kid. He was one of my favourite players.
“Many Japanese players have had success at this club. Across the world, this is a massive club and is really well known. I am truly excited to be joining Celtic. It's a huge opportunity for me.
“So far, even the current Japanese players have been performing at a high level. I think that is why there are expectations on Japanese players. I really want to live up to those expectations and do my best.”
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