Kyogo Furuhashi is at the centre of surprising transfer speculation this summer.
Despite a successful tenure at Celtic, where he has scored 73 goals and provided 15 assists over three seasons, rumours have emerged about a potential move back to Japan.
Journalist Marco Molla has reported that Urawa Red Diamonds are interested in signing Furuhashi.
The J-League club has reportedly maintained a good relationship with Celtic since their negotiations over Giakoumakis in January 2023.
Furuhashi, who signed a new contract last season extending his stay at Celtic until the summer of 2027, has been a key figure in Celtic’s attack under both Ange Postecoglou and Brendan Rodgers.
His performance has not only been stellar domestically, but he has also proven himself as a goalscorer in the Champions League.
At 29, a move back to Japan would come as a surprise, especially considering Kyogo’s previous expressions of ambition to play in one of Europe’s top five leagues, notably the Bundesliga.
As the transfer window unfolds, it remains to be seen whether the interest from Urawa Red Diamonds will materialise into a formal offer and how Celtic will respond.
Caoimhin Kelleher speaks about his Liverpool future after being linked to Celtic
As Celtic prepare for the new season ahead, there will undoubtedly be some major transfer incomings and outgoings over the coming summer months.
Brendan Rodgers will be looking to add some much-needed quality now that his title win has guaranteed Champions League group-stage football next season.
The absolute priority for the Celtic boss is how to replace Joe Hart. The retiring Hoops hero played his final game of the season after beating Rangers at Hampden to win the Scottish Cup and it’s fair to say that Rodgers has a job on his hands to do that.
One of those names was Republic of Ireland international goalkeeper, Caoimhin Keller.
Kelleher outlines first-team ambitions
Once on the fringes of the Liverpool match-day squad, Kelleher has enjoyed some first-team football due to the injury to Brazilian ‘keeper, Alisson.
Now on the brink of a return, Alisson is likely to resume his position as Liverpool’s number-one goalkeeping choice.
And when asked if he sees him becoming a number one at Anfield, Kelleher admits that he knows that could be tough.
Kelleher said [The Athletic], “It would be great if that happened at Liverpool, but I’m not silly. I know that Ali has been the best goalkeeper in the world for years.
“I’ve had such an amazing time at Liverpool. It’s been a crazy journey for me and one that I’ve absolutely loved.
“I love the club, I love the fans and I have a great relationship with the players and the staff.
“Whether it’s here at Liverpool or somewhere else, I do feel the next step for me is to be a No 1.”
Kelleher was first linked to Celtic over a year ago when Fabrizio Romano suggested that he wanted to leave the club in search of first-team football.
However, his recent form at Liverpool seems to have pushed up Kelleher’s value and out of reach of Celtic but speculation surrounding Celtic’s interest has still not gone away.
The likelihood of Celtic adding Kelleher is slim, however, with Celtic offering the opportunity of first-team football and a crack at Europe, could that be enough to tempt the Irishman even for a temporary move?
