Osmand signs on but where's the Kyogo replacement?
Celtic's strategy for strengthening the squad is once again under a microscope and whether a key replacement for Kyogo Furuhashi is on the horizon to fuel European ambitions.
Celtic have been active early in the transfer window, with the recent announcement of 19-year-old striker Callum Osmand joining from Fulham on a four-year deal. Osmand becomes the club's fourth summer signing, following Kieran Tierney, Ross Doohan, and Benjamin Nygren.
While this early activity is positive, it's clear Osmand isn't intended to be the Hoops' primary striker. He'll likely step in as the third-choice forward, behind Daizen Maeda and Adam Idah, signalling the end of Johnny Kenny's Celtic career.
Who replaces Kyogo?
Osmand's arrival and Kenny's impending departure bring a crucial question to the forefront - will Celtic sign a striker to replace Kyogo Furuhashi?
Daizen Maeda stepped up admirably in the second half of last season, bagging 20 goals, but it's uncertain if Rodgers views him as the long-term main man. Similarly, Adam Idah, despite scoring 20 goals across all competitions last season (12 in the second half), hasn't consistently shown the qualities of a leading Celtic striker.
Funding Future Transfers
Celtic's business model often involves selling key assets each season to fund new acquisitions. With Nicholas Kuhn reportedly close to a summer exit, potentially fetching £15-20 million, and a percentage of Jeremie Frimpong's sale from Leverkusen to Liverpool, these funds are vital.
Notably, the club's current signings haven't commanded significant transfer fees: Tierney and Doohan arrived on frees, Nygren for a nominal £1.5 million, and Osmand will only incur a training payment to Fulham. This financial flexibility, coupled with the significant revenue from Champions League participation (around £40 million in prize money and TV rights, before factoring in ticket sales, merchandise, hospitality, and commercial income), means Celtic are well-positioned to invest. Strengthening the squad with a direct replacement for Kyogo, six months after his departure, is a necessity.
Strengthening for European Ambition and Domestic Dominance
After an improved Champions League performance last season, Rodgers and the Celtic hierarchy will be aiming for similar, if not better, results this campaign. This ambition is unlikely to be realised without a quality striker in the starting eleven.
When considering the summer departures, the squad hasn't necessarily been strengthened yet. Tierney effectively replaces Greg Taylor, Nygren will likely step in for Kuhn, Osmand for Kenny, and Doohan for Scott Bain. True squad enhancement, particularly after a disappointing Scottish Cup Final against Aberdeen and the derby performances against Rangers last season, is still a must.
Celtic's Champions League play-off first leg is scheduled for August 19th or 20th. While there's still some time for further additions, the club needs to accelerate its recruitment to ensure they are prepared for Europe's elite competition. A replacement for Kyogo is not just desired, it's essential for achieving both domestic and European success.
Given Celtic's current transfer activity and financial position, who do you think would be the ideal striker to replace Kyogo and lead the line for the Hoops this season?
Kvistgaarden is the man we have been linked with since January. Seems to have a lot of the same qualities and physical attributes as Kyogo had. Being 23 years old he has potential for further development and of course the opportunity for return in investment.
I think we need to replace Kyogo but I have no confidence in the board to do so. I think the lack of serious investment in the squad will come back to haunt us in Europe and will give Rogers the get out clause not to sign a contract extension.