Celtic are preparing a fresh attempt to sign Blackburn Rovers' Player of the Season Ryoya Morishita when the transfer window reopens in January 2026. The Scottish giants saw a late deadline day move for the Japanese midfielder collapse this summer, according to a report from Yahoo Sports UK.
Journalist Alan Nixon said: "Blackburn Rovers star Ryoya Morishita is on the radar of Celtic and they made a late move on deadline day." The Championship club rejected the approach, determined to keep a player who contributed four goals and nine assists in 37 league appearances last season. Morishita's performances, which included scoring and assisting in a 3-1 win over Sheffield United, earned him the club's Player of the Season award with 38% of the fan vote.
Why did Celtic's summer move fail?
Blackburn's financial situation during the summer window made them reluctant sellers. The club brought in only four new signings, with Gady Beyuku being the sole arrival in a window hampered by poor finances. This context made retaining key assets like Morishita a priority. Celtic, who showed a willingness to spend, also missed out on another Rovers target, Reo Hatate, who joined rivals Burnley instead. The failed deadline day scramble left Martin O'Neill's side needing to wait until January to revisit their interest.
Where does Morishita fit in Blackburn's current plans?
Under manager Tony Mowbray, Morishita has started the new season with one goal and one assist in five Championship appearances. His role remains important for a Blackburn side currently 16th in the table with five points from five games. The team's form reads LDLWD, having scored six goals and conceded seven. They sit six points behind early leaders Swansea City. Morishita's creativity will be needed, especially with several players currently sidelined, including Harry Pickering and Lewis Miller. Fans can track the full list of unavailable players on the club's injuries page.
What happens next for Blackburn Rovers?
The immediate focus shifts to the pitch and a home fixture against Sheffield United on September 8th. United are 15th, just one place above Rovers, making it a significant early-season clash. You can view the full upcoming schedule on our fixtures page. The club will hope a positive result can build momentum before the January window brings renewed speculation. O'Neill and Celtic are expected to test Blackburn's resolve again for the 29-year-old, who is described as being towards the end of his prime. How the club navigates that interest while aiming to climb the standings will define their winter.
Blackburn Rovers host Sheffield United at Ewood Park on Tuesday, September 8, 2026.
