Celtic are ready to go again after overcoming last season’s shambles and have now confirmed the signing of Japanese sensation Kyogo Furuhashi. The terms are agreed with Vissel Kobe and the influence of Ange Postecoglou must have worked as a catalyst in their swift summer move.
✍️ We have reached agreement to sign Japanese internationalist, @Kyogo_Furuhashi subject to the satisfaction of usual conditions and international clearance! ?#WelcomeKyogo ???
— Celtic Football Club (@CelticFC) July 16, 2021
The Hoops, meanwhile, announced the arrival of Liel Abada only a couple of days ago. They have accelerated the recruitment process in recent weeks and are likely to strike a few more deals prior to the upcoming Champions League qualifier against Midtjylland.
Furuhashi spent a couple of years with FC Gifu in the Japanese second tier before being roped in by Vissel Kobe back in summer 2018. He took little time to settle down in top-flight football and soon grabbed a key status alongside the iconic Andrés Iniesta and Thomas Vermaelen.
The 25-year-old winger played an integral role last year in the 2020 Japanese Super Cup final versus Postecoglou’s Yokohama F. Marinos. He was majestic all throughout and even found the net once. Ushi went on to win it in the tie-breaker and the attacker continued his exquisite form in the AFC Champions League.
Why Celtic Might Have Hit The Jackpot With Furuhashi
Meanwhile, the Japanese international has fired in 14 times so far this year in 20 J1 League appearances. He has exhibited his flexibility across the frontline, however, the gaffer should prefer him down the left-hand flank due to his ability to operate as an inverted winger. His pace, flair and creative spark would be best utilized from the wide and the potential he holds should see him emulate the success of legendary Shunsuke Nakamura at Parkhead.
The Hoops have already bid farewell to Mohamed Elyounoussi after two successive loan stints from Southampton. Ryan Christie is closing in on an exit amid Saudi interest, whereas academy graduate Mikey Johnston is still struggling to cement his place due to form and fitness reasons. The lack of options on the left might lead to a major problem midway through the campaign, but roping in Furuhashi would benefit the Bhoys once the new signing attunes to the Scottish game.
A four-year deal depicts how highly the manager rates the forward and the fans, too, must be jubilant to witness the young prospect.
