Celtic are pushing for a sensational short-term reunion with former fan favourite Kyogo Furuhashi, with the Japanese striker now reportedly open to a Parkhead return.
A Striker in Search of Form
Kyogo Furuhashi left Glasgow for French side Rennes in a £10 million deal just twelve months ago, but his career has stalled since. A disappointing spell in France, where he failed to score in six outings, was followed by a summer move to Birmingham City. His fortunes in the Midlands have been scarcely better, with his solitary goal coming in a League Cup fixture.
With interim manager Martin O'Neill back at the helm and the squad desperately short of firepower, Celtic have proposed a five-month loan deal to bring the 30-year-old back to familiar surroundings. It is understood Furuhashi was initially hesitant about the move but, after 24 hours of consideration, is now leaning towards accepting the offer.
Celtic's Striker Crisis and Title Race Pressure
The urgency for Celtic is clear. The champions sit third in the Scottish Premiership, six points behind leaders Hearts and three adrift of Rangers. O'Neill currently has only Shin Yamada and Johnny Kenny as fit senior striking options for this weekend's match against Dundee United.
The summer departure of Adam Idah to Swansea and an injury to free agent signing Kelechi Iheanacho have left the squad exposed. O'Neill did not mince his words when asked this week if a new centre-forward was needed, stating bluntly: ‘I think it’s pretty obvious.’
Celtic are demanding a quick answer from Furuhashi, aware that his 85 goals in his previous Celtic spell could be vital for their title ambitions. However, the club is also exploring other options in case the deal falls through.
Sutton's Stark Warning on Recruitment
Former Celtic striker Chris Sutton has emphasised that January signings are non-negotiable if the club is to reclaim the championship. Speaking on William Hill's SPFL preview show, The Warm-Up, Sutton was unequivocal.
‘If Celtic do not strengthen their squad significantly in January, then I don’t think Celtic win the league,’ he stated. ‘I think Martin is a super smart guy, super smart coach, and he’s very well aware that he needs help.’
Sutton believes O'Neill's return was conditional on board backing in the transfer market, noting the interim manager's public call for new ‘bodies in the door.’
The push for reinforcements comes after the sacking of Wilfried Nancy, whose tenure ended following a 3-1 defeat to Rangers – his sixth loss in eight games. As O'Neill prepares for his third spell in charge, securing a proven goalscorer like Furuhashi could be the first crucial step in reviving Celtic's faltering season.
