Whelan suggests Celtic could be about to sign a ‘superstar’ after Ideguchi update from Japan
Noel Whelan has suggested Ange Postecoglou could sign a potential “superstar” in Yosuke Ideguchi in January.
The former Leeds striker and club ambassador, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, insisted no one saw the best of the 25-year-old during his spell at Elland Road.
As reported by reputable Japanese sports newspaper Sponichi Annex on Thursday (9 December), Celtic have agreed terms with Gamba Osaka to sign Ideguchi next month.
The midfielder will reportedly travel to the UK to undergo a medical and complete the move before the end of the year.
Whelan admitted he had high hopes for Ideguchi at Leeds.
He suggested Postecoglou could unlock a the midfielder’s “star” potential.
Whelan told Football Insider’s Russell Edge: “He was one of these players that came into Leeds United that no one ever saw.
“As soon as he came in he was sent out on loan.
“Look, Postecoglou has obviously done his homework. He knows of the player.
“Where would he fit in the team? Well, he’s an attacking midfield player.
“We had so many high hopes and heard rave reviews when he came into Leeds. He was the next star.
“It didn’t really materialise but maybe Postecoglou can get the best out of him and find the position that’s going to bring out that superstar status when he signed for Leeds.
“Right now, you can’t question the signings that he’s made.”
Ideguchi joined Leeds in January 2018 but never featured for the Yorkshire giants.
He spent time on loan with Cultural Leonesa and Greuther Furth before returning to Japan in 2019.
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