Ko Itakura has confirmed he is not going to be returning to Schalke in the summertime as hypothesis swirls over his future.
The Manchester Metropolis star spent final season on mortgage and helped the Bundesliga 2 aspect achieve promotion again to the highest flight.
Metropolis are reportedly demanding nearly £5m for the 25-year-old nonetheless and Schalke are reluctant to pay up.
Waz reported that Schalke should determine by at the moment, Could 31 in the event that they wish to take up a €5.5million (£4.6m) choice to purchase.
And it appears they've determined towards it - opening the door for Celtic to revive their curiosity.
Posting on social media Itakura wrote: "I'm very grateful for my time with Schalke. It's a nice membership and we loved an incredible season collectively. It actually felt like a household.
"I'll miss everybody right here very a lot, however I want Schalke all the very best for the long run. Thanks for every part
"Glück auf (good luck)."
Itakura was on a listing of Celtic targets final summer time and has re-emerged as a rumoured defensive choice.
Ange Postecoglou is out there for a brand new centre-back and it is understood that may be along with Cameron Carter-Vickers, quite than in its place.
The American is closing in on a everlasting return and will be part of alongside Itakura or Taylor Harwood-Bellis, who has additionally been linked with a transfer from Metropolis.