Manchester City are reportedly keeping a close eye on Celtic attacker Kyogo Furuhashi as they search for a replacement following Julian Alvarez’s big-money move to Atletico Madrid a few weeks ago.
The Cityzens have been actively scouring the market for potential replacements, with Crystal Palace’s Eberechi Eze initially emerging as a key target. However, that move now seems unlikely, as the London club is demanding upwards of £60 million for their star player.
Following the arrival of Savinho from Girona, Pep Guardiola initially considered the possibility of not entering the market for a replacement. With the transfer of Savinho and the strong pre-season performances of young talents James McAtee and Oscar Bobb, the Spanish manager was reportedly content with the options available at the club. However, the situation changed when Bobb suffered a serious injury, ruling him out for a few months.
Romano confirms Man City interest in Furuhashi
🚨🔵 Manchester City are considering a move for Kyogo Furuhashi from Celtic, one of the options for winger position.
Initial talks took place this week as @hughmurray1894 and @samlee reported.
⚠️ City want to get Ilkay Gündogan deal done as priority… and then decide on winger. pic.twitter.com/aUWLxPMsQl
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 21, 2024
Reputed journalist Fabrizio Romano has confirmed City’s interest in Furuhashi, with initial talks having taken place this week with Celtic. The Scottish champions are reportedly asking for at least £25 million for the Japan international. City were initially waiting to finalise Ilkay Gundogan’s return to the Etihad Stadium before making progress on the Furuhashi deal. Now that the former German international’s move to Manchester has been confirmed, City are expected to accelerate their pursuit of the Celtic star.
After playing for amateur, school, and university teams in Japan, Furuhashi made his professional breakthrough with a move to J2 League side FC Gifu. The 29-year-old’s impressive performances caught the attention of Japanese giants Vissel Kobe, who signed him two years later. Furuhashi soon emerged as one of the most prolific strikers in the J1 League, scoring 42 league goals in 95 appearances.
From amateur Japanese clubs to Celtic star
In 2021, Celtic recognized his potential and signed him for a fee of £4.5 million. The Japanese forward has adapted well to life in Scotland, netting 73 goals in 135 appearances for Celtic across all competitions. The 29-year-old also had a good game against City in the pre-season, where he capped off his performance with a fine goal.
With the transfer window closing soon, Manchester City will need to make a quick decision on whether to make a move for Furuhashi or consider alternate targets as they chase a record extending fifth consecutive Premier League trophy.
