Reo Hatate fuels swirling Celtic to Tottenham transfer theory as he becomes ultimate Angeball cheerleader

Celtic midfielder Reo Hatate has lauded the impact of Ange Postecoglou as he talked up his relationship with the Australian amid rumours of a move to Tottenham.

The 25-year-old has been linked with a big move to the English Premier League with speculation ramping up that Postecoglou could look to take the midfielder to north London this summer. An exit for the Japan international would be a major blow for the incoming Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers as the Irishman looks to create a squad capable of challenging in the Champions League next term.

Hatate has openly stated he wants to play in one of Europe's top five leagues in the future and off the back of a Treble-winning campaign, fears are growing that a big-money offer could come in for the Japan cap. While on international duty, the opened up on how the Angeball philosophy pushed him on after snapping him up from Kawaski Frontale in January 2021.

He told Goal: "This season, I went directly to Mr. Ange's room and asked him something like, 'what is my current task?' and Mr. Ange told me 'this is how it is now, this is how it is now'. We had that kind of exchange three or four times this season.

"Mr. Ange is a coach who has a clear line with the players, so he doesn't talk to me much during practice. However, I have really grown with Mr. Ange's aggressive football.

"It is thanks to him that I can find free space by myself, and I am about to go forward strongly according to this football. I think you have come this far.

"In the first half of this season, there was a time when I was a little worried, so I went to Mr Ange at that time. He taught me things. He also taught me new things, so I really respect him.

"I think he's someone who gives me hints. I did well for a year