Latest Celtic transfer news as Iwata wanted by ... and 3 incomings

Latest Celtic transfer news as Iwata wanted by Birmingham City and 3 incomings targeted

The Birmingham City football club is preparing to make another move into the Scottish Premiership by targeting a last-minute transfer for Celtic’s midfielder, Tomoki Iwata, before the transfer window closes.

This follows a series of successful transfers by the Blues, including the acquisitions of Ben Davies and Scott Wright from Rangers, as well as Alex Cochrane from Hearts earlier in the summer.

The club’s interest in Iwata is said to be driven by their former Hoops assistant manager, Chris Davies, who has identified the Japanese player as a key target, according to a report from the Daily Record.

Iwata, who played a significant role in Celtic’s lineup towards the end of the previous season, has yet to make an appearance in the current campaign.

Notably, he was absent from Celtic’s recent victory against St Mirren. Brendan Rodgers, Celtic’s manager, appears to be focusing on enhancing his midfield options and is reportedly open to allowing the 27-year-old Iwata to move to Birmingham City, where he could potentially restart his career in England’s third tier.

If Birmingham City successfully negotiates a deal for Iwata, it is anticipated that Celtic will seek to bring in at least two new midfielders on transfer deadline day.

In line with these efforts, Celtic’s management has reportedly agreed to a record-breaking financial package that surpasses the £9 million the club spent on signing Odsonne Edouard back in 2018.

As part of their transfer activity, Celtic is also close to securing a deal for Sheffield United defender Auston Trusty. The American international, who was previously linked with a move to Rangers last summer, is expected to cost the Hoops £6 million.

Trusty, who can play both as a central defender and as a left-back, underwent a medical examination in London last night and is expected to arrive in Glasgow today to finalize his transfer. His addition to the squad is seen as a crucial move to strengthen Celtic’s defense, offering versatile options for the team’s backline.