Celtic have seen one of their midfielders mentioned in Brazilian transfer circles this week, although there’s nothing nailed on just yet.
According to Brazilian outlet Nosso Palestra, intermediaries have recently offered Reo Hatate to Palmeiras. The 28-year-old has been playing in Scottish football since 2022 and remains under contract with Martin O’Neill’s Celtic.
Palmeiras are active in the transfer market, and the UK market is one they’ve been keeping an eye on.
The Brazilian side are currently prioritising the signing of a centre-back and a central midfielder. Hatate’s name emerged during that process, but only through approaches from representatives. The insinuation is the Celtic player’s agents, or at least people purporting to have a sale mandate, have been trying to build a transfer.
Celtic transfer not expected to develop
Despite the contact, the expectation in Brazil is that Celtic talks will not move forward. Palmeiras’ board do not see Reo Hatate as fitting the internal profile defined for the position. As a result, no negotiations are planned at this stage.
From Celtic’s perspective, there is no indication of a formal approach or interest being registered. The situation is described as exploratory and external, rather than club-driven.
It’s fair to recall that Palmeiras have recently experienced dealing with Scottish clubs, having signed left-back Jefté from Rangers in the last summer window. Still, in Reo Hatate’s case, the player’s next steps should not lead to Brazil.
