Celtic star Yuki Kobayashi set for Parkhead exit as defender attracts interest from two clubs

CELTIC flop Yuki Kobayashi could be set for a move to the United States.

The Japanese defender is attracting interest from MLS clubs, including Real Salt Lake and FC Dallas, after failing to make an impact at Parkhead.

Kobayashi was handed a five-year deal when he moved from Vissel Kobe last January.

But he has not been a Hoops hit like countrymen Kyogo Furuhashi, Daizen Maeda and Reo Hatate.

Kobayashi has not made a single appearance under Brendan Rodgers this season after playing five times under predecessor Ange Postecoglou.

The 23-year-old has also been linked with Yokohama F. Marinos in his homeland.

They are managed by Harry Kewell, who quit as Hoops coach to head for Japan.

Yokohama are keeping tabs on the defender, who is available on a loan or permanent deal.

With Cameron Carter-Vickers and Liam Scales starters for Celts and Maik Nawrocki and Stephen Welsh as back-up, Kobayashi is well out of the picture.

He is one of a number of fringe players who could be on their way out this month.

Meanwhile, CelticstrikerOh Hyeon-gyu says South Korea must be stronger if they want to win their first Asian Cup in 64 years.

Jurgen Klinsmann’s side finished second in Group E and will face Saudi Arabia in the last 16 on Tuesday.

Oh said: “In a major tournament like this opponents are always preparing to prey on us. We need to stand up stronger.

“The quality of our players should lead us. But I’m proud of our team for qualifying for the last 16.”

Oh has failed to make a start at the tournament, but made substitute appearances against Jordan and Malaysia

The 22-year-old said: “I am ready to score a goal whenever the opportunity arises.

“I had a good chance against Malaysia and if I had been lucky it would have gone, but I am still positive. I think I can play better.”