VERSATILE Celtic midfielder Tomoki Iwata looks to be heading for Birmingham City in a deadline-day deal.
The Japanese international arrived at the Hoops on a loan-to-buy switch from Yokohoma F Marinos in January 2023 and the £1million move was sealed in the summer.
Iwata, who had been named J-League Player of the Year when he hooked up again with his former Marinos boss Ange Postecoglou at Parkhead, has failed to figure in the new campaign.
HAMPDEN HOORAYS…Tomoki Iwata is a roaring success after Celtic completed the silverware clean sweep with a 3-1 Scottish Cup Final win over Inverness Caley Thistle in June 2023.
The 27-year-old, who can play in an attacking and holding role in the middle of the park, has been seeking game time and he could be offered a regular place at the St Andrews club by Brendan Rodgers’ former right-hand man Chris Davies, according to the Scottish Sun.
Iwata became a bit-part player following the Irishman’s return last season and has made 42 appearances, many from the substitutes’ bench, in his time at the champions.
Davies, who took over from ex-Celt Tony Mowbray in June after the Midlands team’s relegation from the Championship, has been tasked with getting the club promoted in quickfire fashion.
He views Iwata as a potential key player in his attempt, but it is not clear if Celtic will allow a valuable squad member to leave on a permanent deal.
