Contract talks between Celtic and Reo Hatate are finally underway, according to a report.
It's claimed discussions over a new deal began this week after a turbulent transfer window for the Japanese midfielder.
Reports during the window suggested Hatate requested for talks to be put on hold amid interest from Saudi Arabia and France.
However, with the window closed and Hatate remaining at Parkhead, the Daily Mail reports that talks with Celtic over a new contract have started.
Hatate is already under contract until 2026 but it's thought Celtic chiefs are keen to tie down the midfielder having recently agreed new deals with Kyogo Furuhashi, Callum McGregor, Daizen Maeda and Liel Abada.
Hatate is set to make his comeback from a calf injury as Celtic face Dundee this afternoon.
The midfielder had been sidelined since picking up the knock against Aberdeen last month.
“Yeah, he’ll play before Tuesday," Rodgers confirmed. "Whether he starts or not depends. It was a challenging summer for him. Having seen him close up I know it was difficult.
“He’s over that now. It’s just a shame he got injured when he did, but his response to get back has been fantastic. I’ve had a good couple of chats with him. He knows the demands and where we are at – he’s a top-class player.
“It’s about managing him back into it. It will settle down. The window is difficult for players but things settle down once it’s closed.”
