Ange Postecoglou’s J-League Connection Continues to Bear Fruit
Celtic’s Australian manager Ange Postecoglou appears determined to further strengthen his squad with talent from Japan’s J-League, having already struck gold with summer signing Kyogo Furuhashi. According to Baji999 sources, the Hoops are now targeting a triple swoop for Japanese internationals Daizen Maeda, Reo Hatate, and Yosuke Ideguchi as Postecoglou looks to build on his promising start at Parkhead.
The 24-year-old Hatate, a versatile left-back/midfielder from Kawasaki Frontale, is reportedly pushing for a move after entering the final months of his contract. Meanwhile, Maeda – who thrived under Postecoglou at Yokohama F. Marinos – could reunite with his former boss after clinching the J-League Golden Boot. Completing the trio is Gamba Osaka’s Ideguchi, a technically-gifted midfielder with prior (albeit unsuccessful) experience in English football at Leeds United.
Breaking Down Celtic’s Potential New Signings
Daizen Maeda: The Goal Machine
- Age: 24
- Position: Striker/Winger
- 2021 Stats: 23 goals (J-League top scorer)
- Connection: Played under Postecoglou at Yokohama F. Marinos
“Maeda isn’t just a finisher – his pressing and movement are tailor-made for Postecoglou‘s system,” notes Japanese football expert Dan Orlowitz. “He could form a devastating partnership with Kyogo.”
Reo Hatate: The Versatile Dynamo
- Age: 24
- Position: Left-back/Midfielder
- 2021 Honors: J-League Best XI
- Contract Status: Expires February 2022
Hatate’s ability to play multiple positions makes him particularly valuable for Celtic’s squad depth. His technical quality and engine could see him slot in immediately at left-back – a problem position for the Bhoys this season.
Yosuke Ideguchi: The Midfield Enforcer
- Age: 25
- Position: Defensive Midfielder
- Experience: Brief stint at Leeds United (2017)
- 2021 Stats: 29 appearances for Gamba Osaka
While his Leeds move didn’t work out, Ideguchi has matured into a consistent performer in Japan. His ball-winning ability could provide vital protection to Celtic’s backline.
Why This Transfer Strategy Makes Sense
Postecoglou‘s Asian market expertise is proving invaluable. As former Celtic striker Darren Jackson told Baji999:
“Kyogo has set the standard – these signings aren’t punts anymore. Ange knows exactly what he’s getting, and the fans will expect immediate contributions.”
The numbers support this approach:
- Kyogo’s 14 goals in 20 games
- J-League’s rising reputation for developing technically-gifted players
- More affordable fees compared to European markets
Other Celtic Transfer Business
While focusing on Japan, Celtic are also addressing other squad needs:
- Jota’s Permanent Deal: The Benfica loanee (8 goals this season) will likely have his £6.5m option triggered
- Outgoings: Goalkeeper Vasilis Barkas is set to depart after failing to impress
Baji999 Verdict: A Calculated Gamble With High Potential
Postecoglou’s targeted approach reflects both his philosophy and pragmatism. By signing players he knows can adapt quickly (Maeda), fill immediate needs (Hatate), and add steel (Ideguchi), Celtic could accelerate their rebuild without breaking the bank.
As the January window approaches, all eyes will be on whether Celtic can secure this exciting Japanese trio to bolster their Premiership title push and European ambitions. One thing’s certain – in Postecoglou and Baji999, the Celtic faithful have leaders who aren’t afraid to think differently.
