AND NOW FOR MY NEXT VICK
buy the 24-year-old as part of the initial agreement.
It is believed that figure is around £6million and with significant add-ons that could take the deal significantly higher.
A Spurs source has confirmed that talks have now kicked off and there could be room for movement, in terms of the fee, the period it is paid up in, and future add-ons.
Celtic are also looking to start similar talks with Benfica in a bid to take up the option they have in Jota’s loan.
Postecoglou admitted he wanted the bulk of his transfer business done early but there is still scope for further deals, in the defensive and midfield attacking areas and that could be ramped up with possible exits.
The Celtic manager welcomed Maeda, Hatate and Ideguchi and the Hoops hope they will make the same impact as Kygo Furuhashi.
Postecoglou knows them all well from the J-League and has insisted the trio will bring genuine quality and energy to his squad.
The Aussie said: “We are really pleased to bring in these guys to Celtic and I think they are players who will excite our fans.
“Clearly I am well aware of their attributes and I think in bringing all three to the club we are bringing even more quality, personality and energy to the squad to work with the players who have done so well for us already.
“They are all really at the peak of their careers, ambitious to achieve more success and I am sure at this particular time we will be getting their best years.
“I am delighted to have secured these players so early in the window, I look forward to working with them and myself, my backroom team and the rest of the squad will be making sure we help them settle into Celtic as quickly as possible.”
Striker Maeda previously worked under Postecoglou at Yokohama F Marinos and he can’t wait to join up with the gaffer.
He said: “I’m really happy to have been able to play at Yokohama F Marinos. I am really grateful to my team-mates for understanding my desire to take on the challenge again overseas.
“I will do my best to give you a good report, and I’m going to visit the BOSS!”
The 24-year-old was the top scorer in the J League last season and joins on loan for the season but has a compulsory purchase clause which will see the player join long term in the summer.
Midfielder Ideguchi has penned a four-and-a-halfyear deal. The former Leeds player, 25, comes in from Gamba Osaka and said he’s determined to get his career back on track.
Ideguchi said: “I am very sorry I have not been able to perform to my personal satisfaction this season. I’ve been offered a transfer and have decided to move.
“My first attempt abroad was incomplete and I felt frustrated because I was not good enough. This time I will try my best to play an active role.”
Versatile Hatate comes in from champions Kawasaki Frontale. The 24-year-old has also penned a deal until 2026.
He said: “I’m really glad to have played for Frontale. I will be playing for a different team next season and I want to challenge myself to grow as a footballer and as a person.
“I would be very grateful if you could keep an eye on me as well as Frontale.”
All three are expected to join Celtic’s squad when they return to training next week.