Celtic have held talks over a possible loan move for Manchester City defender Ko Itakura, according to Express Sport reporter Ryan Taylor.

The Lowdown: Itakura profiled

Itakura, primarily a centre-back who can also play as a holding midfielder, joined City back in 2019 from Kawasaki Frontale in a deal worth £990,000.

Since then, the 24-year-old has spent the last two seasons on loan with FC Groningen, making 59 appearances for the Dutch side.

Itakura’s Etihad deal still has 12 months left to run, with his Transfermarkt valuation now the highest it has ever been at £3.15m.

The Japan international is currently at the Olympics, and it seems as if the Hoops have taken the first steps over a potential move for the 6ft 1 defender.

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The Latest: Talks held

According to Taylor on Tuesday, Celtic have held discussions with City over a loan move.

The Premier League champions don’t see Itakura in their immediate plans, with Taylor claiming that Ange Postecoglou would love to bring the defender to Parkhead.

City are demanding a substantial loan fee for Itakura, though, which could force Celtic into looking elsewhere for reinforcements unless the Premier League champions are willing to negotiate.

The Verdict: City relationship to pay off?

Celtic appear to have built a strong relationship with Manchester City in recent years after signing the likes of Olivier Ntcham and Jeremie Frimpong.

The relationship between the two clubs could potentially help the Hoops when it comes to lowering any loan fee for Itakura.

Initial talks have been held, so it will be interesting to see if a move goes further or if Celtic decide to look elsewhere.

In other news: Pundit drops verdict on left-back Celtic want to sign.