KO ITAKURA has revealed he's happy to be linked with a transfer move to Celtic again.

The Manchester City defender was previously touted for a move to Parkhead on loan before heading instead to Schalke.

However, after the German club decided against activating a buy clause in the loan deal the defender has been linked with a number of clubs.

Celtic have again been included in the list of reported interested clubs with Fulham and Bournemouth also credited with transfer interest.

However, while on international duty - alongside Celtic duo Kyogo Furuhashi and Daizen maeda - Itakura has admitted he's happy with the transfer links.

Quizzed on the reported Celtic interest, the defender said: "I'm very happy to hear that story because I've seen it in the news.

"Firstly, I want to go where I am needed. I haven't decided on a team yet, no.

"I want to help myself by taking for myself before I decide to go. "