Celtic show 'concrete interest' in international star, but there's a catch

Yukinari Sugawara (Image: Shutterstock)

Celtic are showing "concrete interest" in Southampton right-back Yukinari Sugawara, according to a new report.

The Japan international is back from the USA after playing alongside former Celtic winger Daizen Maeda for his country.

Sugawara impressed on loan at Werder Bremen last season, providing six assists in 31 appearances.

German outlet Absolut Fussball says both Celtic and Dutch champions PSV have shown interest in the 26-year-old, with a permanent return to Werder Bremen unlikely.

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Celtic are keen to strengthen the right-back position after Alistair Johnston suffered a hamstring injury that will keep him out for at least a month.

Colby Donovan and Tony Ralston are available, but Martin O’Neill chose Bournemouth’s Julian Araujo during the run-in last term rather than rely on either player.

Sugawara built his reputation at AZ Alkmaar before moving to Southampton, who reportedly want to recoup at least the £6 million they paid for him.

He has two years left on his Southampton contract, and it is unclear if a loan deal could be an option.