Celtic midfielder Tomoki Iwata is reportedly set to join Birmingham City on deadline day, marking a potential departure from the Scottish champions. The Japanese international arrived at Parkhead on a loan-to-buy agreement from Yokohama F Marinos in January 2023, a move that was made permanent for a fee of £1 million the following summer.
Iwata, who was named J-League Player of the Year before linking up with former Marinos boss Ange Postecoglou in Glasgow, has struggled to secure regular playing time this season. The 27-year-old, capable of operating both offensively and defensively in midfield, has been seeking more opportunities to showcase his talents.
Birmingham City, managed by Chris Davies â Brendan Rodgers' former assistant â could provide Iwata with the chance to become a key player at St Andrews. The club, relegated from the Championship last season, are aiming for a swift return to the second tier and Davies sees Iwata as a valuable addition to his squad.
Despite his limited appearances in the current campaign, Iwata's departure from Celtic is not a certainty. The club might be reluctant to let a valuable squad member leave on a permanent transfer.
Iwata's potential move to Birmingham marks the latest chapter in a busy transfer window for both clubs. Celtic, who have already secured several notable signings, are looking to maintain their dominance in Scotland, while Birmingham are seeking reinforcements to aid their promotion push. The outcome of Iwata's future remains to be seen as the transfer deadline approaches.
