Celtic have done some ‘good thinking’ by arranging a deal to sign Vissel Kobe defender Yuki Kobayashi in January, according to Sky Sports pundit Kevin Campbell.

The Lowdown: Kobayashi agrees terms with Celtic

The Premiership champions are believed to have made central defence one of their priority positions when the winter market opens, with the 22-year-old having been identified as a primary target.

Recent reports suggest that the Japanese defender has already agreed personal terms to make the move to Parkhead in the New Year on a free transfer, with his contract in Kobe expiring at the end of January.

The Latest: Campbell’s plea to Celtic

Asked by Football Insider whether Celtic needed another centre-back given the number of options already available to Ange Postecoglou, Campbell said: “You have to keep on it. You cannot rest on your laurels. Celtic need to start thinking about next season in January.

“When they were without [Cameron] Carter-Vickers they looked a bit light back there. Perhaps they need somebody else who is capable of stepping in.

“You always have to think about where you can strengthen. That is really important. It is good thinking from Celtic to get someone lined up ahead of January.”

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The Verdict: Solid Jenz alternative

Moritz Jenz is only at Celtic on loan, so Kobayashi would be a great long-term replacement for the Austrian if the Parkhead hierarchy decide not to trigger the purchase option at the end of the season.

The 6 foot Japanese ace has plenty of experience under his belt, having made 123 career appearances, while he would offer Postecoglou plenty of versatility, having also operated at left-back (Transfermarkt).

The Hoops are renowned for raiding the Japanese market, with Kyogo Furuhashi, Daizen Maeda and Reo Hatate having all made an impact since arriving in Glasgow, and there’s no reason as to why Kobayashi couldn’t do the same.