‘Brendan Rodgers to push for Kyogo return after major Celtic development’
Brendan Rodgers seems likely to now push for Kyogo Furuhashi’s return this summer after a major development at Celtic.
It’s fair to say the Hoops have been flying recently. A 5-0 win against Dundee United on 26 April clinched their fourth consecutive Premiership title.
What’s more, the gap their Old Firm rivals has been steadily growing in recent seasons, culminating in the 17-point gulf that currently separates the two sides.
However, next season may be a tougher test. Andrew Cavenagh and 49ers Enterprises are looking to purchase Rangers and provide a big boost to their finances and resources.
To add to that, a troubling update now leaves Rodgers‘ front-line lacking in firepower, and Celtic will need to address the issue this summer.
Jota ruled out for six to nine months with ligament injury
Jota is expected to be out for six to nine months after limping off against the Tangerines whilst his teammates enjoyed the fruits of their labour, celebrating another league title.
The Portuguese winger has been in exceptional form since returning to Parkhead after a two-year absence.
Not only has Jota contributed with a healthy amount of goals and assists, but his existence on the left wing has allowed Rodgers to use Daizen Maeda as a full-time number nine.
Whilst speaking about the winger’s injury to Sky Sports, Celtic’s manager highlighted the need for the Hoops to become active in the transfer market (2 May): “We will definitely have to into the market, of that there is no doubt, but that was always going to be the case anyway.
“You are always looking to improve your front line, but there is no doubt that this news really shines a light on to that area of the field for us.”
Kyogo Furuhashi likely available for reduced fee after Rennes struggles
The solution to their woes may well by the familiar face that is Furuhashi.
The striker moved the other way when Jota re-joined Celtic in January, heading to France for £10million [Sky Sports].
However, the 30-year-old has endured a miserable time on the continent, starting only one match for his new team and appearing for a total of 120 minutes in Ligue 1.
Aberdeen’s former chief, Keith Wyness, told Football Insider exclusively in March that Furuhashi may be available to Celtic for as little as £3.5million.
Having failed to settle at Rennes, the Japan international may well be keen on a return to Parkhead where he enjoyed the best years of his career, just as Jota himself rebounded from difficulties after leaving the Hoops.
And Rodgers will undoubtedly welcome his former striker back into the fold as Celtic look to quash any sort of uprising that may be brewing in the blue side of Glasgow.