Chris Sutton emphatically stated that Celtic should reject any notions of offloading Kyogo Furuhashi during this transfer window amidst swirling rumors suggesting a potential departure for the prolific forward.

Talks surrounding Kyogo’s future intensified recently with speculations linking him to a move to Urawa Red Diamonds in Japan. Despite not replicating his exceptional 34-goal tally from the previous season, Kyogo’s impact and importance to Brendan Rodgers’ side have not waned, with notable performances against top-tier teams like Rangers, Atletico Madrid, and Lazio.

While external interest in Kyogo is to be expected, Sutton emphasized the necessity for Celtic to hold onto their key players, especially for their Champions League aspirations. Dismissing suggestions of a potential sale, Sutton highlighted Kyogo’s immense value to the team, both in terms of on-field contributions and his significance in important matches.

Addressing concerns about Kyogo turning 30 soon and the lure of a substantial transfer fee, Sutton pointed out the challenges of finding a suitable replacement for a player of Kyogo’s caliber, underscoring his pivotal role within the squad.

In the current phase where Celtic competes on multiple fronts, including European competitions, maintaining a balance between short-term gains and long-term objectives becomes paramount. Despite conventional wisdom suggesting a prime player like Kyogo could be sold for profit, Sutton argued against such a move given Kyogo’s unique skill set, experience, and influence on the team’s performance.

With his dynamic style of play, tactical acumen, and ability to shine in crucial matches, Kyogo is deemed indispensable for Celtic’s ambitions. The focus should be on nurturing and maximizing his potential within the team setup, rather than contemplating his departure. This strategic approach aligns with Celtic’s objectives on the pitch and underscores Kyogo’s continued significance amidst ongoing transfer speculations.