Celtic are beginning to circle for key targets and could now be set to be embroiled in a high-profile chase for a prolific goalscorer, according to reports.
Celtic's striker question yet to throw up a definitive answer
Brendan Rodgers has made it crystal clear that Celtic want several options across their forward line after Kyogo Furuhashi’s departure. Meanwhile, Nicolas Kuhn moving to Como has left room for more goals to come into the side over the coming weeks.
Addressing their striker situation, the Irishman admitted Shin Yamada’s arrival from Kawasaki Frontale is just the tip of the iceberg, as he stated: “He’ll have a medical over the next couple of days and we’ll have a look at him. We’ve lost a lot of goals, so we need to replace that. Hopefully, this can be one of a number of players we can bring in that aspect.
“He’s got intensity and workrate. It’s something the scouts have seen. In terms of the club, we will bring in players to develop and players for now. Even though he’s a bit older, he’s probably one that can give us that intensity and pressure.”
Intriguingly, Rodgers has seemed to confirm the suspicion that Celtic are operating two different transfer strategies this window. On one hand, the Bhoys appear like they are trying to get ahead of the curve with ‘club’ signings, while arrivals such as Kieran Tierney come in with more of a personal touch from the manager.
Odsonne Edouard is another reported target that may fall into the latter category, albeit it is hard to envisage the Scottish Premiership champions matching his Premier League-level wages.
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With Celtic clearly in the market for another leading light in attack, recent developments may point supporters in the direction of their latest pursuit.
Celtic see bid rejected for Louis Munteanu
According to reports from iAMsport.ro, Celtic have seen an opening bid of £6.9 million turned down for CFR Cluj forward Louis Munteanu, with their owner Ioan Varga said to be holding out for a fee of £15.6 million.
Meanwhile, Ligue 1 clubs Rennes, Lille and Nice are also monitoring his situation at the Dr. Constantin Rădulescu Stadium.
Louis Munteanu at the UEFA EURO Under-21 Championships (Fotmob)
Goals
1
Shots
5
Shots on target
2
Successful passes
31
Duels won
11
Earning his stripes last term, Munteanu registered 25 goals and three assists in 42 appearances across all competitions, and he kicked off the new campaign with a goal in Europa League qualifying against Paksi FC earlier this month.
Making his presence known, the 23-year-old is a clinical finisher with a track record of delivering at a high standard. However, it remains to be seen whether Celtic will bow to his lofty valuation or whether alternative targets will be pursued.