Celtic are in search of a striker this January. The club were always expected to try to strengthen up front, after their struggles in front of goal this season when it comes to finishing their chances. On the other hand, with Giorgos Giakoumakis expected to leave this month, signing a new forward has become a necessity rather than a luxury.
Celtic have been linked with a long list of strikers over the past few weeks and months, but the one name that stands out amongst them as the club’s priority target is Cho Gue-sung of Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors.
The South Korean striker was immensely impressive at the World Cup, earning plaudits for his brace against Ghana as well as his overall performances. And he has been superb at club level in recent times as well. According to stats from Transfermarkt, over his 35 appearances in the 2022 campaign, Cho scored 21 goals and provided 5 assists.
Now, Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors manager, Kim Sang-sik, appears to be dropping some strong hints that Cho could be on his way out of the club soon. As reported by The National, the 46-year-old said about the situation:
"“Sadly, I don’t think it will be too long before Cho leaves us.“As a manager, I want my best players for the new season and I need them to help us challenge for the league.“Cho is receiving a lot of attention for his good performance in the World Cup and it is true that another club has actually made an official offer to sign him.“We are considering it carefully because it depends on the player’s hopes for the future and his career path.“Allowing a good player to leave is a bit difficult. I don’t want to let them go. I will be very sad.“When he scored those two goals at the World Cup I was delighted for him, but also worried because I knew exactly what would happen.“I was well aware it wouldn’t be long until we received bids.“And there is certainly a possibility that he will leave in the winter transfer market right away.”"
Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors manager hints that Celtic target is on his way out
Celtic are rumoured to be one of the frontrunners to sign Cho but they are certainly not the only ones after the signature of the South Korean striker.
Bundesliga’s Mainz are believed to hold a keen interest in the player as well, while Minnesota United are also in the running to sign Cho.
It will be very interesting to see how things turn out in the race for Cho. Of course, one cannot rule out the possibility of him staying at Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors till the summer, when more clubs could be interested in signing the South Korean international.