Celtic interested in Japanese left-back Keita Kosugi

Keita Kosugi was a stand-out in the UEFA Conference League this season

According to Sponichi Soccer, the Scottish Champions are among several clubs showing interest in the Japanese left-back, who joined the Swedish side a year ago. The 19-year-old caught attention with his performances in both Djurgardens’ Allsvenskan season and their impressive run in the Conference League.

Initially brought in as a backup to Samuel Dahl last year, Kosugi saw limited minutes, but following Dahl’s move to Roma, he stepped up as a regular starter and continued to grow as the season went on.

Celtic may face stiff competition for his signature

Kosugi developed in the youth ranks at Shonan Bellmare but had not broken into the senior squad prior to his move to Sweden in 2024. He has represented Japan at the U-17, U-19, and U-20 levels.

Celtic may face stiff competition for his signature, with PSG and Atalanta also reportedly showing interest in the talented young defender.

Djurgardens surprised many by making it to the Conference League semi-finals as underdogs, but their run ended there with a 4-1 defeat in the first leg and a 1-0 loss in the second against tonight’s finalists Chelsea.

Unable to cope with Chelsea’s Noni Madueke

Post-match, the full-back confessed that he struggled to cope with the threat posed by Noni Madueke. Speaking via FotbollSkanalen, he said: “I couldn’t do anything to Madueke. He was so good. I tried to stop him but he created a lot anyway.

“He’s one of the best wingers in the Premier League, so it’s difficult to face him. But if I want to get there [to that level]I have to develop a lot.”

No new updates on Taylor or Schlupp 

Celtic may be in the market for another new left-back, as Greg Taylor appears poised to leave on a free transfer, having yet to agree to a contract extension.

While Kieran Tierney is set to join on a free transfer, the loan departure of Jeffrey Schlupp leaves KT as the sole left-back at the club for next season currently.

Discussions have taken place regarding a permanent move for Schlupp , whose contract with FA Cup winners Crystal Palace has expired.

Conor Spence