Manchester City’s search for a new striker has led them to Celtic’s Kyogo Furuhashi, with the Scottish champions demanding a club-record fee of over £24.7 million for the Japanese forward.
Furuhashi has been a key player for Celtic since joining the club in 2021, and his impressive form has caught the attention of Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola. With Julian Alvarez’s departure to Atletico Madrid earlier this summer, Manchester City is in need of a reliable backup striker to support Erling Haaland.
The 29-year-old Furuhashi has a strong track record in Scotland, and his experience playing under Juanma Lillo at Vissel Kobe makes him an attractive option for Manchester City. Lillo, now Guardiola’s assistant, knows Furuhashi’s capabilities well, and his presence at Manchester City could play a significant role in the club’s pursuit of the striker.
However, Celtic is unwilling to let Furuhashi go without a fight, and the club’s valuation of over £24.7 million reflects his importance to the team. Manchester City may need to weigh up whether Furuhashi is worth the investment, considering the club’s other options and priorities in the transfer market.
Furuhashi’s potential move to Manchester City would reunite him with Lillo, who coached him at Vissel Kobe in the Japanese league. During their time together, Furuhashi played 13 times, scoring five goals and assisting five more. The familiarity between Furuhashi and Lillo could be a significant factor in Manchester City’s decision-making process.
As Manchester City navigates the transfer market, the club must balance its desire for a new striker with other priorities and considerations. With Haaland leading the line, Manchester City needs a reliable backup striker who can provide support and competition. Furuhashi’s experience and skill make him a strong candidate, but the club must decide whether he is worth the significant investment required to sign him.
In conclusion, Manchester City’s pursuit of Kyogo Furuhashi highlights the club’s need for a reliable backup striker. With Celtic demanding a club-record fee, Manchester City must weigh up whether Furuhashi is worth the investment. The familiarity between Furuhashi and Juanma Lillo could play a significant role in the club’s decision-making process, and the outcome of this transfer saga will be closely watched by fans and pundits alike.