Celtic are on the verge of completing a deal for Vissel Kobe defender Yuki Kobayashi, according to reports.
Not to be confused with his J-League team-mate of the very same name, the 22-year-old looks set to become Ange Postecoglou 's fifth acquisition from the Japanese top-flight in under two years. The Parkhead boss has spoken of his intention to again move quickly in the upcoming January market - and it's little wonder why.
A string of winter signings proved pivotal in last season's Premiership title race as the likes of Reo Hatate, Daizen Maeda and Matt O'Riley helped turn the tide in Celtic 's favour after they were beset by injuries in the opening half of the campaign. This time, however, they're looking to build from a position of strength - and with the possibility of interest emerging in their players in the wake of the upcoming Qatar World Cup. That process is clearly well under way and Kobayashi now looks likely to be Postecoglou's next addition. A report from Spinochi in Japan says the clubs have agreed a deal and the player is keen to make a move overseas.
