Kyogo Furuhashi is reportedly nearing a transfer to Stade Rennes from Celtic FC, marking significant movement as clubs across Europe look to bolster their squads during the transfer window. According to Le Parisien, the French side is set to pay €12 million for the Japanese striker, who has been linked with Rennes throughout the transfer period.
The deal, which includes the potential return of Jota to Celtic, appears to have taken shape following Kyogo's recent performances, most memorably scoring three goals during the recent match against Young Boys, though all were deemed offside by VAR as Celtic secured their place in the Champions League knockout phase with a narrow 1-0 victory.
Turning 30 earlier this week, Kyogo's desire to leave Celtic had been hinted at after he switched agents last summer to CAA Base. This move has raised questions about his future with the club. While speculation has swirled, Le Parisien claims he has likely played his last match for the Bhoys during this week’s Champions League fixture.
Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has indicated he will not impede players who wish to leave, stating clearly, "If a player doesn't want to be here, then go." This statement speaks volumes about the club's willingness to adapt and explore new opportunities for both the club and its players.
Kyogo has made significant contributions since joining Celtic from Vissel Kobe, having scored 85 goals since 2021 over 32 competitions this season alone. His clinical finishing and ability to perform under pressure have made him one of the standout forwards, drawing interest from various clubs, with Rennes now seemingly leading the race.
Current Rennes manager Jorge Sampaoli is eager to strengthen his attacking lineup amid struggles to avoid relegation from Ligue 1. With several players not performing to their potential, including the likes of Amine Gouiri, the addition of Kyogo is seen as pivotal to rejuvenate the team's forward play.
Jota, who left Celtic to join Al-Ittihad for £25 million, is also part of the negotiations. If he returns to Celtic, it would be seen as not only filling the void left by Kyogo but also reintegrate talent familiar with the team's dynamics. Jota's departure to Al-Ittihad had raised eyebrows, and his performance since has not kept him among the regular starters, setting up discussions for his possible return.
Both clubs need to strategize for the upcoming fixtures, particularly with Celtic's strong showing in the Champions League providing them confidence going forward. The law of UEFA complicates things, as clubs are not allowed to make changes to their squads during the league phase but may register up to three new players if they progress. With Celtic now secured for the knockout stage, they could shift focus to future player transactions.
Rodgers seems prepared for the eventualities of squad change, highlighting the importance of forward-thinking strategies. He reflects, “We always have to be ready and that's our message,” as he assesses the current squad dynamics amid the transfer buzz around key players.
Should the deal for Kyogo be finalized as expected, it will not only mark the end of his term at Celtic but also present Rennes with fresh dynamics to alter their relegation fight. Meanwhile, for Celtic, the potential return of Jota could revitalize their forward line and maintain momentum as they face the challenges of European and domestic competitions.
With strong efforts on both sides of the transfer, the football world watches how this narrative will shape the coming weeks as both Celtic and Rennes set the stage for significant changes courtesy of strategic transfers—transfers which may well alter their season's outcomes.