Celtic 'line up' transfer move for frozen-out World Cup star

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Celtic are "lining up" a loan move for Southampton right-back Yukinari Sugawara, according to a new report.

Alistair Johnston is expected to be out until at least October, leaving manager Martin O’Neill with fewer right-back options before the September 3 transfer deadline.

Now, Football Insider has reported that Celtic see a loan deal as the solution, with Sugawara able to leave Southampton before the transfer window closes.

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The 26-year-old is well down the pecking order at St Mary’s after spending last season on loan at Werder Bremen. He has not been included in a Southampton matchday squad this term.

Sugawara has played in the Champions League, Europa League and Conference League during his time with AZ Alkmaar. Celtic want cover for Johnston, despite Colby Donovan impressing in the first leg of the Champions League play-off against LASK.

Per the report, O’Neill is understood to want more depth in defence if Celtic reach the league phase. Sugawara has become an option, but the Premiership champions would prefer him on loan instead of signing him.