Celtic's reported deal for centre-back Yuki Kobayashi may not be necessary due to the quality depth already at Parkhead, according to BBC pundit Alan Hutton.

The Lowdown: Kobayashi set to join

Sky Sports reporter Anthony Joseph recently claimed that the Hoops are in talks regarding a potential move for the 22-year-old, in the hope that he will be able to complete his switch to the Scottish Premiership in January.

Japanese outlet Sponichi have since revealed that a fee between the two sides has now been agreed, with it simply being a matter of time before he signs on the dotted lines in a transfer that would see him link up with former teammate Kyogo Furuhashi.

The Latest: Another one?

Speaking to Football Insider, Hutton insisted that Celtic are already well covered in central defence.

He isn’t convinced that another player in that area is what they need right now, but admitted Ange's eye for talent is promising.

“I see Celtic as very strong at this moment in time.

“But, I understand from a Celtic point of view that you can’t stand still.

“I think [Moritz] Jenz and [Cameron] Carter-Vickers have got a great relationship, they look very strong together. [Stephen] Welsh and [Carl] Starfelt are obviously in there as well.

“It is probably not an area that I see that is totally needed at this moment in time. But Ange will have done his homework, he probably knows the player and what he is capable of.

“So he will have a good idea of what he is bringing in to the football club. If it is an opportunity to bring in a top football player I am sure they will do it.“

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The Verdict: Smart bit of business

The Glasgow outfit do already have plenty of options available, but a deal for Kobayashi is a smart one, having been hailed for his ‘good tactical awareness’ by journalist Dan Orlowitz.

The 6 foot defender is very experienced with 122 career appearances under his belt, where he’s clocked up three goals and one assist during that time.

Ange Postecoglou will have been attracted to the fact that he can also play at left-back, which provides the boss with sufficient cover in two areas should any injuries occur.