If Celtic can keep Kyogo Furuhashi and sign Adam Idah to a permanent deal, Celtic great Chris Sutton thinks they can make “a solid start” with their summer transfer intentions.
After expressing interest in the Hoops frontman, Kyogo is allegedly being re-signed by Urawa Red Diamonds. Rumour has it that English Premier League clubs have also contemplated signing the former Vissel Kobe player. The future of Idah at Celtic Park is uncertain as he has returned to Norwich City of the English Championship after a productive loan with Brendan Rodgers’ squad.
The Republic of Ireland striker nine goals and contributed two assists in 19 appearances for the Hoops and became a solid fans favourites after striking a late winner in last weekend’s Scottish Cup Final victory against Rangers. Former Celtic striker Sutton has claimed his old club should attempt to retain Idah’s services this summer and encouraged the Hoops to ensure they have ‘enough quality players’ to challenge in four different tournaments next season.
Writing in his Daily Record column, the former Hoops player said: “Idah has come in and proven that he can cut it at Celtic. There is significantly less danger linked to any deal and at 23 year old, he’s also a player with the potential to return that money in a few years. That doesn’t imply he could come in as a replacement for Kyogo. Celtic will need both of them in the squad. The pair of them were rotated last season and that seemed to bring the best out of both.
“Celtic will be fighting on four fronts next season and they will need all the quality players they can get – especially in the attacking areas. There are issues Celtic need to improve but maintaining Kyogo and getting Idah in would be a strong start.”
Rangers confirm five departures as summer renovation looms
Philippe Clement has begun the process of putting his own imprint on the Rangers group after it was reported five first-team players had departed the club.
The former Monaco coach has enjoyed a decent start to life at Ibrox, despite losing out in the Premiership title fight and Scottish Cup Final to cross-city rivals Celtic. With planning for a demanding first summer in charge now underway, Clement has elected to part company with five present members of his squad. Goalkeeper Jon McLaughlin, defender Borna Barisic, forward Kemar Roofe and midfielder duo Ryan Jack and John Lundstram have all departed the club when their contracts came to an end.
A club statement released on Saturday morning read: “Rangers Football Club can today confirm the departures of Borna Barisic, Ryan Jack, John Lundstram, Jon McLaughlin and Kemar Roofe following the expiry of their contracts. With a combined 23 seasons with the club, all five players have represented Rangers with devotion and dedication over a number of years.
“Everyone at Rangers thanks the departing players for their time at the club & wish them the very best in the future. They were all part of the group that lead Rangers to the UEFA Europa League final in Seville, with Borna Barisic, Ryan Jack and Kemar Roofe lifting the league title with the club in 2020/21. All five leave as Scottish Cup and Scottish League Cup winners with Rangers in previous years. Everyone at Ibrox and Rangers’ Training Centre appreciate the departing players for their time at the club and wish them all the very best for their future careers.”
