Celtic confirm signing of treble-winning midfielder Tomoki Iwata on permanent deal

Celtic have confirmed the signing of Tomoki Iwata on a permanent deal.

The 25-year-old Japan international joined the Hoops in January on an initial loan-deal with an obligation to buy after being named player of the year in the J-League.

His former club Yokohama Morinos, who are due to play the Scottish champions in a friendly next week, announced the move on Thursday.

The combative midfielder played 18 times for Celtic last season, including appearances in both cup finals as Ange Postecoglou’s side took home a clean-sweep of domestic trophies.

The Parkhead club confirmed the signing on Twitter and Iwata says he is looking to improve on his performances from last season.

Speaking to Celtic TV he said: “I’m really looking forward to it. I came in last season and really felt how big a club this is and how great Celtic is during that six months.

“I feel that I need to lift up my level for the new season, so I’m looking forward to it but also, I want to prepare very well.

“I joined the team in the middle of the season. I felt that I settled well into the team but, personally, I wanted to help the team more.

“This season we will try to win the same titles. We’re aiming for more success and, within that, I want to perform well too.”

Iwata has four caps for the Japan national team.