Cammy Devlin’s move from Hearts to Rangers has generated plenty of attention across Scottish football, but one unexpected reaction has stolen the headlines.
Celtic midfielder Reo Hatate appeared to endorse the signing after liking a photo of Devlin’s unveiling posted on Rangers’ official Instagram account and the player’s personal page.
Devlin departed Tynecastle as a free agent, following Hearts captain Lawrence Shankland and manager Derek McInnes through the doors at Ibrox.
The 28-year-old Australian international turned down offers from MLS before agreeing a two-year deal with the option of a third year at Rangers.
Hatate’s social media activity quickly caught the eye of fans from both sides of the Old Firm divide, sparking a wave of reactions online.
The Japan international has publicly admitted his desire to play in a top five European league, with a Parkhead exit anticipated before the summer window closes.
Celtic supporters were divided over the incident, with some taking a dim view of their star player’s apparent endorsement of a rival club’s transfer.
One fan was blunt in their assessment, simply writing: “Bye bye Reo Hatate,” while another labelled the move “bizarre” and a third called him “a wolf in sheep’s clothing.”
Others were far more relaxed about the situation, with one supporter reasoning: “He follows Cammy Devlin on Insta so it’s prob popped up on his feed and he’s just liked it without reading it.”
A more dismissive supporter added: “He follows Devlin. Could be an accident. And who gives a f***.”
Hatate has yet to report back for Celtic pre-season duties, having missed the club’s friendly clash with Shelbourne earlier this week.
Celtic boss Martin O’Neill addressed the midfielder’s absence, saying: “Reo came late to proceedings. I think he was a bit ill at the time, so he missed out about four or five days.”
O’Neill confirmed the player is working to get up to speed, adding: “He’s doing a little bit of work and he’s catching up with us in Portugal.”
Whether the social media moment proves to be a genuine slip or a simple scroll-and-tap accident, it has done little to dampen speculation about Hatate’s future at the club.
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