Celtic plan Naka talks

Bhoys optimistic over star's future

By Peter O'Rourke   Last updated: 20th August 2007

Shunsuke Nakamura

Nakamura: Set for contract talks

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Celtic chief executive Peter Lawwell is confident Shunsuke Nakamura will extend his stay at the club.

Nakamura's future at Parkhead was the subject of speculation over the summer with the likes of Manchester United and Aston Villa linked with the playmaker.

It was also suggested that Nakamura had a buy-out clause in his contract, which was quickly rejected by Celtic.

Lawwell admitted Celtic have had approaches for the Japanese ace, but that the club rejected the overtures out of hand.

Speculation

"We're used to speculation surrounding Shunsuke," Lawwell told the Sunday Mail.

"It's frustrating because some of the things mentioned, such as a £1million get-out clause, are total nonsense.

"Naka loves playing at Celtic and loves the fans. He has found a home here.

"But I know he likes it here and has refused to entertain any nibbles at him about moving on.

"We've had interest from other clubs. Approaches have been made to him and us."

Contract
Nakamura has a year to run on his current contract and Lawwell has revealed they will hold talks with the player over a new deal in the next few months.

"He is contracted until summer 2008 then we have a one-year option," added Lawwell.

"We will sit down with his agent in December or early January and decide what's going to happen.

"Naka might decide to stay on for a few years or indicate he wants to move on."