Celtic have not given up hope on Reo Hatate signing a new contract, according to a report.
It emerged this morning that the Japanese midfielder had turned down an offer of a new deal from the club.
However, the Daily Record states that the Scottish champions remain positive that fresh terms can be thrashed out with Hatate.
As well as discussing a new deal with Hatate, talks have also been ongoing with Liel Abada. Club officials have spoken to both players and their representation about the matter.
The report states that such discussions are ongoing for both players.
It has been revealed that Hatate was offered a significant wage boost in the offer that was knocked back by the player, who like Aada, is contracted until the summer of 2026.
The Record claims that while he would have secured greater income for himself, he would remain way behind his fellow Japanese stars Kyogo and Daizen Maeda.
It's said this is because the latter duo arrived in Glasgow on far bigger initial contracts than Hatate, who joined Celtic from Kawasaki Frontale in January 2022.
Both Hatate and Abada have played key roles since joining under Ange Postecoglou respectively.
And it's believed Celtic are keen to improve their terms by extending their deals as a reward for their form over that time.
Although no agreements have been struck at this stage, it seems Celtic are hopeful that the situation can change.
Our Celtic Digest newsletter brings exclusive content directly to you rather than solely through the website. You can already find us on YouTube, Twitter, Facebook, TikTok and Instagram but we will also send bespoke opinion pieces and special features directly to your email inbox every evening. Not only will you receive this article from Tony Haggerty or Aidan Macdonald (or, sometimes, from all three) but you will also get easy access to our best content from the last 24 hours too. It’s a great way to keep up to date with what’s happening at the Scottish champions. To sign up, simply take five seconds to type in your email here. Simple!
