
Glasgow Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has confirmed that deals involving Kyogo Furuhashi and Jota are expected to be completed as soon as possible.
Japan international Kyogo is currently in France, finalizing a £10 million transfer to Rennes. Rodgers disclosed that the 30-year-old striker expressed his desire to leave Celtic many months ago. The manager also revealed plans to secure another striker before the transfer window closes on February 3.
Meanwhile, Jota is set to make a return to Celtic Park, 18 months after his £25 million move to the Saudi Pro League with Al-Ittihad.
The Portuguese winger later joined Rennes in France but struggled to secure a regular starting spot. Celtic are now close to completing his £8 million signing, with Rodgers describing him as a potential “fantastic addition” to the squad.
Rodgers expressed his excitement at the prospect of working with Jota for the first time, acknowledging the player’s earlier contributions to the club.
“He’s one of those players I was eager to work with during my return. I’d seen what he did for Celtic previously—his ability to create and score goals made a big impact. It was disappointing when he left before I arrived, but now he has a chance to grow his legacy even further. He’s still young and has room to develop, and I’m looking forward to helping him achieve that,” Rodgers stated, as quoted from Sky Sports.
Kyogo, who joined Celtic from J.League 1 side Vissel Kobe in the summer of 2021 under Ange Postecoglou, has been a key player for the club. However, Rodgers revealed that the striker’s request to leave for a new challenge became increasingly insistent over time.
“Kyogo’s expressed interest in leaving became clear months ago, and as his desire grew stronger, we had to work towards an agreement to let him go,” Rodgers explained. “He’s been an incredible player for us over the past three and a half years, and while we never wanted to lose him, we respect his wishes.
“At Celtic, you can achieve great things—even if the Scottish Premiership isn’t one of the top five leagues. It’s a place where players can develop and showcase their talent at the highest levels, like the Champions League. When I arrived, Kyogo hadn’t scored in that competition, but now he’s proven he can perform on that stage,” Rodgers added.
Rodgers also noted that Kyogo’s contributions to Celtic haven’t always translated into recognition with the Japan national team, which may have influenced his decision.
On Sky Sports, former Glasgow Rangers striker Kris Boyd weighed in, saying Kyogo’s departure would be a significant blow to Celtic.
“For Celtic fans, Kyogo leaving is a big worry. He’s been decisive in so many games this season, often scoring the crucial goals. I understand why he’d want one final big move at this stage of his career, but it’s hard to replace a proven goal-scorer like him. That said, £10 million is good business for Celtic,” Boyd remarked.
Regarding Jota, Rodgers highlighted the player’s creative flair and goal-scoring capabilities as key assets for Celtic.
“Jota’s got undeniable quality, and I’m thrilled to have the chance to work with him now. His previous spell at Celtic showed his ability to make a difference, and I believe he can help us reach even greater heights this time around,” Rodgers said.
As Celtic look to adjust their squad, Rodgers confirmed the club’s plans to sign another striker to fill the gap left by Kyogo. The manager expressed optimism about moving forward with a strengthened team capable of competing at the highest level.
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