Shin Yamada draws Celtic scouts directly to him as Japan transfer double is on amid striker signing mission

Celtic have cashed in on the Japanese market and appear primed to do it once moreShin Yamada of Kawasaki Frontale is challenged by Roger Ibanez of Al-Ahli

Celtic are reportedly keen on Kawasaki Frontale frontman Shin Yamada as they are in the mix to land a Japanese transfer double.

Parkhead scouts have watched Yamada up close and personal and remain locked in talks over a deal to bring versatile Albirex Niigata defender Hayato Inamura to Glasgow.

Celtic have cashed in on the Japanese market with the trio of Kyogo, Reo Hatate and Daizen Maeda fulcrums of a trophy-laden era.

The forward is regarded as a penalty box striker and netted 19 times in 2024, however, he has found goals harder to come by since the turn of the year.

Yamada has been a key man at Frontale – the old team of Celtic standout Hatate – and would find competition for game time keen if interest turns into a concrete offer.

GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – DECEMBER 15: (L-R) Celtic’s Kyogo Furuhashi, Daizen Maeda and Reo Hatate with the Premier Sports Cup trophy during the Premier Sports Cup Final between Celtic and Rangers at Hampden Park, on December 15, 2024, in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Craig Williamson / SNS Group)

Compatriot Maeda, £9million Adam Idah and incoming Callum Osmand will all be vying for key roles under Brendan Rodgers this season in a central berth.

The Scottish Sun state Celtic aren’t the only side from overseas looking at the Japanese forward who is famed for his physical build and knack for playing on the last man.

Celtic are also closing in on forward Benjamin Nygren in a £1.7m deal after securing Kieran Tierney and Ross Doohan as free agents.

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