Celtic Exclusive: Yuki Kobayashi exploring new move after deal collapses - Sources

Transfer Correspondent AUTHORITY Former Sky Sports and ESPN FC correspondent who specialises in global recruitment, contract negotiations, and high-velocity transfer breaking news. FOCUS Exclusive reporting, domestic and international transfer markets, and elite-level insights. THE INSIGHT Pete utilises a Global Network of Industry Sources to deliver verified, first-to-market reporting. His “Deep-Lens” analysis connects the dots between boardroom strategy and pitch-level recruitment, providing a level of transfer clarity that goes beyond surface-level rumours.

Published on:

20 Feb 2024, 10:30 am

Celtic defender Yuki Kobayashi is exploring other out-of-window moves after his transfer to HJK Helsinki collapsed, sources have told Football Insider.

As revealed by Football Insider (19 February), the 23-year-old's move to the Finnish side broke down after being given the green light by the Hoops to move.

Well-placed sources have told Football Insider that Brendan Roders' side have said he is free to find a new club.

Can Yuki Kobayashi find his way out of Celtic after his move to HJK Helsinki fell through?

It is believed that Kobayashi is not in the manager's plans at Parkhead after his arrival in January last year.

Now, he is actively seeking an exit from Celtic amid his lack of game time.

The centre-back is yet to make a single appearance for the Hoops this season and has only made the matchday squad on one occasion - their 1-0 win against Rangers in September.

He moved to the Glasgow giants from Japanese side Vissel Kobe on a five-and-a-half-year deal but has made just seven total appearances since his arrival.

He featured sporadically last season under former boss Ange Postecoglou, having made just six starts in all competitions.

Helsinki were eager to sign Kobayashi and he even flew out to the club for talks, but the move fell through.

Celtic have slipped to second in the league after dropping points in their 1-1 draw against Kilmarnock on Saturday (17 February).

They are next in action against Motherwell away from home on Sunday afternoon (25 February).

In other news, Celtic Exclusive: Senior man 'tempted' by Premier League offer.

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