“We were close to signing him” – Celtic loses transfer deal of Star Player to one of the top teams in the English Championship.

Celtic Football Club has lost out in the transfer race for Japanese international Ao Tanaka, who has signed a four-year deal with Leeds United in the English Championship. Despite Celtic’s interest and their ability to offer the Champions League football Tanaka craved, Leeds United ultimately won the competition for his signature. The midfielder’s transfer to Leeds was finalized on deadline day, marking a significant win for the English side as they continue to strengthen their squad.

Ao Tanaka’s Journey to Leeds United

Ao Tanaka’s rise to prominence began at Japanese club Kawasaki Frontale, where he quickly established himself as one of the brightest young talents in the J-League. His performances in Japan earned him a move to Germany, where he joined Fortuna Düsseldorf. While playing in the 2. Bundesliga, Tanaka impressed with his technical skills, tactical intelligence, and work rate, which attracted attention from clubs across Europe, including Celtic.

On August 30, 2024, Leeds United completed the signing of Tanaka, edging out competition from several other clubs, including Celtic, Denmark’s Midtjylland, and Serie A side Como. Leeds’ appeal came not only from their standing in English football but also from the career development opportunities they presented to the 25-year-old midfielder. Despite Celtic’s ability to offer him a place in the prestigious Champions League, Tanaka chose Leeds, a decision that surprised many fans and pundits alike.

Celtic’s Transfer Window Activity

Celtic had a busy summer transfer window, bringing in players such as Auston Trusty, Arne Engels, and Luke McCowan. However, the Scottish giants were eager to bolster their midfield with a player of Tanaka’s caliber. Celtic trio Daizen Maeda, Reo Hatate, and Kyogo Furuhashi, all regulars in the Japanese national team alongside Tanaka, were expected to help sway his decision toward joining the Glasgow club. Despite this, the lure of playing in English football’s highly competitive environment seemed to be the decisive factor in Tanaka’s choice.

Leeds United’s Strategic Signing

Leeds United’s acquisition of Tanaka is part of a broader strategy aimed at returning to the Premier League. The Yorkshire-based club, which was relegated from the Premier League in 2023, is determined to rebuild its squad and challenge for promotion back to the top tier of English football. With the signing of Tanaka, Leeds have secured a versatile midfielder who can contribute both offensively and defensively, adding depth and quality to their roster.

Tanaka’s move was seen as a strategic one for both club and player. While Celtic could have provided the opportunity to play in the Champions League, Leeds offered the chance to develop in a highly competitive league where his talents could be tested against some of the best teams in England. Tanaka’s debut for Leeds came in a home victory against Hull City, just days before he joined up with the Japanese national team for international duty.

The Impact on Celtic

For Celtic, missing out on Tanaka represents a blow to their summer recruitment plans. The Glasgow club, which prides itself on identifying and nurturing talent, had been tracking Tanaka for some time. His technical skills and experience in European football made him an ideal candidate to strengthen their midfield ahead of their Champions League campaign. However, the club will now need to look elsewhere as they continue to build a squad capable of competing both domestically and in Europe.

Despite missing out on Tanaka, Celtic still managed to bring in several key signings during the summer window. Auston Trusty, a defender from the United States, is expected to shore up Celtic’s backline, while Arne Engels and Luke McCowan will add creativity and attacking flair to the squad. Celtic’s recruitment strategy remains focused on building a team capable of challenging for titles in Scotland and making an impact in European competition.

Dusseldorf’s Perspective

Fortuna Düsseldorf, Tanaka’s former club, did not initially plan to sell the midfielder during the summer transfer window. The German side had already met their financial targets for player sales and were under no immediate pressure to part with one of their key players. However, Leeds United’s interest and the subsequent offer proved too tempting to turn down.

Fortuna Düsseldorf’s sporting director, Klaus Allofs, commented on the transfer, stating, “The targets we set ourselves in sport have been exceeded. We didn’t actually have to sell Tanaka; we had already realized the transfer surplus we had planned.” However, he also acknowledged the realities of modern football, where financial decisions often take precedence. “Without the sale of Ao, we would not have been able to fill all positions,” Allofs admitted, signaling that the club had to make a pragmatic choice to ensure squad balance and financial stability.

Leeds United’s Ambitions

Leeds United’s signing of Tanaka is part of a larger effort to return to the Premier League after their relegation in 2023. The club has invested heavily in new players, seeking to build a squad capable of competing for promotion. The addition of Tanaka to their ranks demonstrates Leeds’ ambition to regain their top-flight status and reinforces their commitment to bringing in players who can make an immediate impact.

For Tanaka, the move to Leeds represents a significant step in his career. While Celtic offered the chance to play in the Champions League, Leeds provided the opportunity to develop in one of the world’s most competitive football environments. His decision to join Leeds underscores the appeal of English football and the opportunities it presents for young, ambitious players.

What’s Next for Celtic?

Celtic will need to regroup and continue their efforts to strengthen their squad. The club remains focused on their domestic campaign, where they are expected to challenge for the Scottish Premiership title, as well as their participation in the Champions League. While the loss of Tanaka is a setback, Celtic have proven in the past that they can attract and develop top talent.

As the club moves forward, the focus will be on integrating their new signings and building a team capable of competing at the highest level. With players like Auston Trusty, Arne Engels, and Luke McCowan joining the ranks, Celtic still have a strong foundation to build upon as they look to achieve success both in Scotland and on the European stage.

Conclusion

Ao Tanaka’s decision to join Leeds United over Celtic is a significant moment in the summer transfer window. While Celtic may feel disappointed at missing out on the talented midfielder, Leeds’ acquisition represents a major coup for the English Championship side. As both clubs move forward with their respective ambitions, the 2024/25 season promises to be an exciting one for football fans.