It’s not what Celtic fans want to hear, but Kyogo Furuhashi is on the transfer radar of Manchester City.
The 29-year-old has been one of Celtic’s great players of the modern era and a key reason why Ange Postecoglou dominated in Scotland and then Brendan Rodgers continued that success upon his return to Glasgow.
But sources have told HITC that Kyogo is attracting interest from Manchester City after Julian Alvarez joined Atletico Madrid.
Barry Ferguson shared his thoughts on it all and he was pretty honest in his thinking, with Celtic fans praying they don’t lose such a key figure.
Matt O’Riley is expected to leave Celtic, the supporters, manager Brendan Rodgers and the board knew this a long time ago.
It just hasn’t happened yet, with the club continually rejecting offers from Europa League winners Atalanta, as now Brighton have opened talks for a club-record deal for O’Riley.
The Bhoys haven’t even brought in a replacement for their Danish playmaker yet – and you question if they will – so losing their Japanese star on top of that might be an even bigger blow.
But for ex-Rangers captain Ferguson, whilst he acknowledged that Kyogo has been ‘excellent’ since moving to Parkhead from Vissel Kobe in 2021, he doesn’t think he is good enough for the champions of England.
Celtic beat Manchester City in pre-season this summer – Kyogo scored – and you feel that probably played a part in him catching the eye.
Ferguson spoke about that game, but he was pretty brutal towards Kyogo and talk that Manchester City want him, as he told Go Radio.
Kyogo Furuhashi’s Celtic future
“They played them pre-season and I remember watching the highlights,” said Ferguson. “I think he did really well against Manchester City.
“I think Kyogo is a very good player. I don’t think he’s at Manchester City’s level, if I am being honest.
“If you are doing your stuff for your club side and you are doing really well, then there is always going to be interest, that’s for sure. Since he has come into this country, Kyogo. He has been excellent. His goalscoring return has been brilliant. His movement is excellent. He is a real team player, that’s one thing about Kyogo.”
Adam Idah signing
Celtic re-signed Adam Idah from Norwich City after his successful six-month loan spell last season.
Many were looking forward to the Irishman linking up with Kyogo and showing what they could possibly do together.
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But if Kyogo does leave, then it makes Idah’s return even more important because he will have big shoes to fill and no one really pushing him for a starting spot.
Of course, Kyogo hasn’t left yet, but Celtic have to bring in replacements if they lose him because they will just make life difficult for themselves instead.
Celtic have been warned not to sign Lawrence Shankland if Kyogo leaves, with the Hearts man producing the best campaign of his career last season.
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