Celtic striker Kyogo rumoured to be a target for Rangers

Take it with a pinch of salt certainly but there is a head of steam at the City end of things and there’s plenty of favourable comments being made about Kyogo, who as you will recall scored against Manchester City in the USA this summer, with Celtic winning 4-3.

“Interesting player to be linked with. Definitely don’t see him as a starter but he brings similar qualities to Alvarez while also providing superior ball retention and link up play.

“Nowhere near the pure ball striker Juli is but there aren’t many that can lace it like he can.”

He added: “Doing some reading and watching of Kyogo Furuhashi.“Immediate and major takeaways are HIGH ENERGY, MOVEMENT, and SPACING. He is constantly on the move – sets the tone well with his energy and “intelligent” aggression. A relentless but not reckless presser of the ball – smart about it.“As a finisher, it’s his movement again that sticks out (in a good way). Has a knack for finding space in the box and is a solid, composed finisher from tight angles, even under pressure.“I wouldn’t classify him as a elite dribbler but has above average close control and maintains possession well. Adept at dropping deeper and playing first time, one touch passes at full speed. He’s comfortable playing fast and has quick feet.“Overall – smart, versatile player who pairs his intelligence with a relentless motor.“A bit similar to Griezmann?”

While this seems to have gained traction among the City fan media folk, there’s little or nothing at the Celtic end of this story. With Adam Idah signing last week, Celtic now have two first pick strikers according to Brendan Rodgers. Losing Kyogo at this stage would be a significant setback, especially as it’s come out of the blue, so to speak.

In the case of Matt O’Riley, Celtic has been well aware that this summer was the most likely time for him to leave, having rejected offers back in January from the likes of Atlético Madrid. Yet Kyogo is 29 and if there is to be a re-sale value an opportunist offer like this one may well appeal to the Celtic Board.

Of course Brendan Rodgers would have to sanction the sale. You would imagine that Kyogo wouldn’t mind signing for the best team in England and one with a real chance of winning the Champions League.

It’s only a rumour but it’s worth keeping an eye on.