Kyogo Furuhashi could be set for a remarkable Celtic reunion just four months after his emotional departure from Parkhead.
The Japanese striker, who became a cult hero during his trophy-laden spell in Glasgow, has struggled to adapt to life in France since his £10million January switch to Rennes – failing to find the net in four Ligue 1 appearances.
Football Insider’s recent revelation about Celtic’s potential move to re-sign their former talisman for a cut-price £3.5million has sparked excitement among the Hoops faithful.
The 30-year-old’s abrupt exit in January left many supporters bewildered, especially after his heartfelt farewell message acknowledging the club’s “unforgettable memories.”
Football industry veteran Keith Wyness, speaking on Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, didn’t mince words about the situation:
“No doubt he’s a huge talent and I think he’s got a better chance of moving from Celtic potentially into the Premier League if he does well again. I’d be surprised if he doesn’t go back to Celtic. I think that’s what makes all the sense in the world. I think he’d be welcomed back.”
Wyness, whose extensive experience includes CEO roles at Everton and Aston Villa, believes Furuhashi’s French adventure has been a misstep:
“I think he’s made a mistake and I think often, if you’re lucky, it’s only half a season that you’ve had to learn that you’ve made a mistake. I suggest he goes back to Glasgow, gets himself sorted out and now kicks on after that.”
The potential homecoming aligns with Celtic’s plans to bolster their squad this summer, as revealed by Football Insider on 23 March.
Brendan Rodgers, armed with a £38million Champions League windfall and on course for another Premiership title, could view Furuhashi’s return as both a sentimental and strategic coup – bringing back a proven goalscorer who netted 85 times in 165 appearances during his first spell.
For Furuhashi, it would represent a chance to rediscover the form that made him one of Scotland’s most feared attackers, while for Celtic, it could prove one of the shrewdest pieces of business in what promises to be an active transfer window.