Man City 'considering' shock move for Celtic striker as Julian Alvarez replacement

Manchester City are said to be weighing up a move for Celtic's Kyogo Furuhashi in their search for a Julian Alvarez replacement.

The Cityzens, who are going in search of a record fifth-successive Premier League title, have done little business during the summer transfer window so far, but are set for a busy last few days ahead of next Friday's deadline.

Ilkay Gundogan is closing in on a sensational return to the club on a free transfer from Barcelona, just one year after departing for Catalonia, and he could be swiftly followed by a new forward.

A report from The Athletic details City's interest in Celtic striker Kyogo, as well an unnamed younger player, as part of plans to replace Alvarez following his move to Atletico Madrid.

Kyogo turns 30 later this season and is seen as the more experienced of the two options on the City radar, but they will only focus on bringing in a new forward once the Gundogan deal is finalised.

But if City, who have lost Oscar Bobb to a fractured leg since selling Alvarez, do ultimately decide to pursue the Japan international, he would be keen on a move to the Etihad Stadium.

Kyogo signed for Celtic in 2021 when they were managed by Ange Postecoglou, who worked in Japan for three years and used his knowledge of the Asian market to the Scottish giants' advantage.

When Postecoglou left Celtic for Tottenham Hotspur last summer, reports claimed Kyogo could follow him, though Spurs ultimately did not make a move for the striker and he remained in Scotland.

During his three years in Glasgow, Kyogo has scored 73 goals in 135 matches, helping Celtic win seven trophies.

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