THE NEXT CELTIC JAPANESE STAR? CELTIC COULD LAND HIGHLY RATED DEFENDER FOR A BARGAIN FEE THIS SUMMER
- BY LIAM CARRIGAN
- 1 day ago
- 2 min read
Updated: 8 minutes ago
There’s probably not many of you who have heard the name Kota Takai, yet.
However, he is, in all likelihood going to be one of the next big emerging talents to leave the J-League for Europe this summer.
Despite only being 20 years old, the central defender has already made 71 appearances for Kawasaki Frontale in Japan’s top flight.
The Next Potential Celtic Japanese Star: Less Kyogo, More Bobo
He cuts an imposing at 6”2, in stark contrast to the stereotypical view many in Europe still have of Japanese players. He’s no Kyogo, he’s more a budding Bobo Balde.
However, Takai isn’t a mere bruiser. He’s also got undeniable ability and leadership skills beyond his years.
He made his full international debut for Japan earlier this year. Already there is talk in the Japanese press of a future Japan national Captain in the making.
So, with a player of this obvious quality, and incredible potential, could Celtic even stand a chance of signing him. Well, actually, yes.
The only rumored interest in Takai from Europe so far appears to be Italian side Udinese. Reports suggest a fee in the region of 3 million pounds. A lot for a J-League prospect but relatively pocket change to a team like Celtic.
Celtic could comfortably match or exceed this fee without breaking any of our current transfer structures.
Additionally, with Stephen Welsh and Maik Nawrocki seemingly set to move on in the summer, and little chance of a Celtic redemption for Gustaf Lagerbielke, we’re going to need at least one more new center back to maintain our squad depth.
And, with the greatest of respect to all of the above, none of them are realistically going to displace Trusty, Carter-Vickers and Scales as our top 3 center backs, whether they opt to remain at Celtic or not.
Takai on the other hand, could come in and present a genuine challenge.
Takai will move this summer, so Celtic need to act soon if we’re going to have any chance of landing him.
Also, I understand that many fans may have an aversion to signing another Celtic Japanese central defender after Yuki Kobayashi failed to make any impact.
I believe Takai is a far better player already though, and time is on his side.
However, time is limited for Celtic. I hope someone at the club has already scouted Takai, because we will not find a defender of his quality in this price range in Europe unless we are extremely lucky.
Young players always present an element of risk, especially when we sign them from abroad. However, I believe Takai is a risk worth taking.