Celtic: 'Door has opened' for £10k-a-week star's arrival at Parkhead

Celtic could ‘try and sign’ Manchester City defender Ko Itakura this summer after missing out on his signature previously, according to journalist Pete O’Rourke.

The 25-year-old has never actually featured for his parent club since arriving from Kawasaki Frontale back in January 2019 and could secure a permanent move away when the market reopens in around a week’s time.

According to Sky Sports, Celtic are ‘monitoring’ Itakura as they are looking to bolster their defensive options ahead of next season, with a left-back and another centre-back targeted.

The Japan international joined Schalke on loan for the 2021/22 campaign, helping them win promotion back to the Bundesliga, but they do not have the funds to trigger their £4.5 million option-to-buy clause.

Itakura, who earns £10,000-per-week, confirmed that he is set to depart the Veltins-Arena after just 12 months with a heartfelt message on social media, opening the door for Celtic to try their luck once again.

Kane to replace Mane?! Gnabry set for Arsenal return?! Find out more on The Football Terrace…

“I am very grateful for my time with Schalke. It is a great club, and we enjoyed a great season together. It really felt like a family,” wrote the 6 foot 1 ace.

“I will miss everyone here very much, but I wish Schalke all the best for the future. Thank you for everything. Glück auf (good luck).”

In an interview with GiveMeSport, O’Rourke said: “Obviously, he’s been a long-term target for Celtic.

“They were linked last summer with him, but he ended up going to Schalke and had a very good season, but they will not be signing him on a permanent basis due to financial reasons, so that maybe opens the door for Celtic to try and sign him this year.

“I think Celtic now, with