Celtic have a concrete interest in signing Southampton full-back Yukinari Sugawara, who has an asking price of €7m. The Scottish champions' interest in a new right-back may have increased following an injury to Alistair Johnston that will keep him out for six weeks. Southampton are reportedly keen to sell the 26-year-old Japan international as they have sufficient players in that position. PSV Eindhoven also have a concrete interest in Sugawara, while Werder Bremen, where he spent last season on loan, are keen to re-sign him, but a return is considered unlikely as the fee is probably too high for them.
As the price could be high for Celtic, a loan with an option to buy could be a possible arrangement. The club is also considering signing Southampton goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu, and a double deal might be possible as the English club wants to reduce its wage bill. Sugawara joined Southampton in July 2024 from AZ Alkmaar for a fee of €7 million and his contract runs until 2028. During his recent loan, Werder Bremen held a purchase option valued between €5-6 million in May-June 2026, which they allowed to expire.
