Burnley pulled off a stunning deadline day coup by signing midfielder Reo Hatate from Celtic, hijacking his proposed move to rivals Blackburn Rovers. The 28-year-old joined for a fee around £6.5 million plus add-ons, putting pen to paper on a three-year deal at Turf Moor.
This audacious move delivers a major statement of intent from a Burnley side currently 23rd in the Championship table. The Clarets have taken just two points from their first four matches, with a goal difference of minus five. They trail league leaders Swansea City by eight points as they target an instant Premier League return.
A loan deal between Celtic and Blackburn Rovers was already agreed. Reo Hatate was physically travelling to Ewood Park for a medical when Burnley made their decisive move. The Clarets negotiated a permanent transfer fee with Celtic while the player was en route, successfully diverting him to their own ground. The 15-mile distance between the two clubs' stadiums made this dramatic switch possible.
Celtic's preference for a permanent sale played into Burnley's hands. Hatate brings a winning pedigree, having collected five Scottish Premiership titles, two Scottish Cups, and two League Cups during his 191-game spell in Glasgow. He netted 33 goals for the Hoops after arriving from Kawasaki Frontale in 2022.
The Japanese midfielder arrives with a clear mission to aid Burnley's promotion push. "This is a great move for me," Hatate stated. "It's my first time playing in England and it's a fantastic club to be joining." He aims to contribute his experience both on the pitch and in the dressing room.
His signing came just before Burnley's midweek fixture against Middlesbrough. Manager Nicky Hayen will be eager to integrate him, though the club's injuries list currently includes Hatate's name alongside Jordan Beyer's. The club's challenging start, visible in the standings, underscores the need for his quality.
This transfer sets up a fascinating subplot for the next East Lancashire derby. Burnley welcome Blackburn to Turf Moor on November 22nd. Hatate, who was nearly a Blackburn player, will now be tasked with helping Burnley defeat them.
The story will capture headlines until that match. Burnley's immediate attention turns to their next league game, an away trip to face Wrexham on September 8th. Fans can follow the team's upcoming schedule on the fixtures page. Reo Hatate's contract with Burnley runs until the summer of 2029.
