Japanese Defender Inamura Joins Celtic on Four-Year Deal

Celtic Strengthen Defence with Signing of Hayato Inamura

Celtic have added another chapter to their growing Japanese connection with the signing of Hayato Inamura from Albirex Niigata. The 23-year-old centre-back has penned a four-year deal with the Scottish champions, reinforcing Brendan Rodgers’ defensive options ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.

Inamura, who only joined Niigata from Tokyo University last year, made an immediate impact in the J-League, racking up 36 appearances – 17 of which came this season. Despite the club’s struggles near the foot of the table, his performances drew plaudits and ultimately caught the eye of Celtic scouts.

Rodgers: “He’s Full of Promise and Potential”

"He's a young player full of promise and potential," said Rodgers. "I know that he's delighted to be taking this next step in his career by joining us, and we look forward to welcoming him into the squad."

Continuing a Proud Tradition of Japanese Talent

Inamura will become the latest in a line of Japanese players to don the green and white hoops, following in the footsteps of Daizen Maeda, Reo Hatate, Kyogo Furuhashi, Yuki Kobayashi, and Tomoki Iwata. All were brought to Glasgow during Ange Postecoglou’s reign, whose time at Yokohama F. Marinos helped establish a successful pipeline between Celtic and Japan.

Nakamura Tribute: “He Was One of My Favourite Players”

The new recruit has opted to wear the number 25 shirt in tribute to Shunsuke Nakamura, a childhood idol who left an indelible mark on Celtic Park between 2005 and 2009.

“Many Japanese players have had success at this club,” Inamura told CelticTV. “Across the world, this is a massive club and is really well known. I am truly excited to be joining Celtic. It's a huge opportunity for me.

“So far, the current Japanese players have been performing at a high level. I think that is why there are expectations on Japanese players. I really want to live up to those expectations and do my best.”

Reflecting on his early football memories, Inamura added: “Regarding Nakamura, I used to imitate his kicking style when I was a kid. He was one of my favourite players.”

Emotional Exit from Albirex Niigata

His departure leaves Albirex Niigata second-bottom in the J-League after 22 games, with the club reeling from a 4-0 loss to Machida Zelvia over the weekend. Speaking to the club’s website after what turned out to be his final appearance, Inamura expressed regret at leaving during a tough period but promised to justify the move.

"I know not everyone will be happy to see me off, but I will fight with all my might so one day everyone will think this decision was the right one and feel proud,” he said.

Celtic’s Japanese Strategy Continues to Bear Fruit

For Celtic, Inamura represents both a long-term investment and a reaffirmation of a transfer strategy that has delivered consistent success in recent seasons. The Japanese connection at Parkhead shows no signs of slowing down.