West Ham United appear to be turning their attention north of the border, with reports suggesting the Hammers have identified three Celtic players as potential recruitment targets — and speculation is already swirling around exactly who’s on the list.
A Change of Plan After Missing Out
According to Claret & Hugh, West Ham’s pivot toward Celtic comes after the club failed to advance their pursuit of an original priority target this summer. Rather than dwelling on that setback, recruitment director Nils Koppen — the former Rangers chief scout who joined West Ham earlier this month — has reportedly recommended three Celtic players as fresh options, with creativity identified as a key area Nuno Espírito Santo is looking to strengthen ahead of West Ham’s push for an instant return to the Premier League.
The Names on Everyone’s Lips
While the identities of the trio remain closely guarded, one detail has sent speculation into overdrive: one of the targets is reportedly Japanese. That naturally narrows the conversation to two obvious candidates — winger Daizen Maeda and midfielder Reo Hatate — both of whom have been strongly linked with summer exits from Parkhead.
Maeda’s Premier League Dream
Maeda has been anything but subtle about his ambitions, having repeatedly stated his desire to test himself in the Premier League. The 28-year-old has been a hugely influential figure during his time in Glasgow, contributing an impressive 79 goals in 212 appearances and helping fire Celtic to five Scottish Premiership titles. He also featured for Japan at the 2026 World Cup, further raising his profile among potential suitors — with reports suggesting West Ham face competition from the likes of Brentford, Everton, Nottingham Forest, and Fulham for his signature.
Hatate’s Search for a New Challenge
Hatate’s situation is arguably even more pointed. The playmaker has reportedly submitted a transfer request, having slipped down the pecking order under Celtic boss Martin O’Neill and openly admitted he isn’t fully satisfied at the club. Speaking recently, Hatate made his ambitions clear, expressing a genuine desire to test himself in one of Europe’s top five leagues and push his career to the next level after already tasting Champions League football with Celtic.
Early Days, But Worth Watching
It’s important to stress this remains an early-stage links story rather than an active negotiation — no formal bids have been submitted, and the identities of the three targets haven’t been officially confirmed. Still, with Koppen’s Scottish football connections clearly shaping West Ham’s shortlist and both Maeda and Hatate widely expected to explore their options this summer, credible interest from an ambitious Championship club could carry real weight.
Have Your Say
West Ham fans, if you could only land one of the two, who would you take — Maeda’s blistering pace and proven end product, or Hatate’s creativity and midfield craft?
Drop your picks below — this transfer story looks set to develop quickly.
