Burnley pull off stunning deadline-day hijack as player heads for rival club

Burnley hijack Blackburn move to sign Reo Hatate in dramatic deadline-day twist

Reo Hatate was on his way to Blackburn Rovers to complete a loan move when Burnley dramatically intervened and turned the transfer on its head.

An agreement had already been reached between Celtic and Blackburn for the Japan international to spend the season at Ewood Park. Hatate had even been given permission to travel and was expected to join fellow countrymen Yuki Ohashi and Ryoya Morishita at Blackburn.

Rovers remained confident throughout the afternoon that the deal would be completed, with Hatate travelling to undergo his medical.

However, with the transfer deadline rapidly approaching, Burnley made a late move that changed everything. The Clarets reached an agreement with Celtic over a permanent transfer, with the Scottish champions preferring to sell the midfielder rather than sanction another temporary exit.

Burnley have reportedly paid Celtic around £6.5million, with additional performance-related payments included in the agreement. Hatate has subsequently put pen to paper on a three-year contract at Turf Moor.

The midfielder’s journey also worked in Burnley’s favour. Because he was already travelling towards the Blackburn area, switching his destination to Turf Moor proved relatively straightforward.

The two Lancashire grounds are just 15 miles apart, making the last-minute change considerably easier.

Hatate could get an early opportunity to face the side he was originally expected to join, with Burnley scheduled to host Blackburn in the East Lancashire derby on November 22.

The 28-year-old leaves Celtic after making 191 appearances for the club and scoring 33 goals since arriving from Kawasaki Frontale in 2022.

During his time in Glasgow, Hatate collected five Scottish Premiership titles, two Scottish Cups and two Scottish League Cups.

His arrival is a significant addition for Burnley as they look to strengthen their midfield and push for an immediate return to the Premier League.

Speaking after completing the move, Hatate said he was delighted to begin a new chapter in England and believes his experience can help Burnley achieve their ambitions.

The Japan international now begins preparations for life at Turf Moor after one of the most unexpected twists of deadline day.