Celtic have mostly been successful when it comes to getting deals over the line for their transfer targets. Of course, not every plan can work out, that is just the nature of the game. Last January, we saw how the Hoops were unable to sign Riley McGree, as the Australian headed to Middlesbrough. But then, that led to the Hoops signing Matt O’Riley and that has definitely worked out well for Ange Postecoglou’s side.
This time around, it looks like the club find themselves in a similar situation, with their plans to sign Cho Gue-sung appearing to be headed nowhere.
Celtic were believed to have even submitted a transfer offer for Cho following his impressive performances at the World Cup for the South Korean national team, as they made it to the last 16 of the competition.
But now, it looks like Cho is set to stay at Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors. The reason behind that appears to be the striker’s concerns about his fitness. As reported by the Daily Record, the player’s agent was asked about the decision to delay a move until the summer by Xports News, and he said:
"“Cho Gue-sung continues to worry about his current physical condition.”"
€3 million Celtic transfer plan on verge of collapsing
There have been suggestions that a January exit for Cho has not been completely ruled out yet and things could still change if an offer is made this his club and the player simply cannot turn down.
That is unlikely to come from Celtic though and it appears that the Hoops will now have to turn their attention elsewhere.
With Giorgos Giakoumakis rumoured to be on his way out of Parkhead this month, someone like Cho could have been the perfect replacement. Not only is he a great goalscorer but has all the physical attributes to take the Greek international’s place in the Celtic team as well. But it looks like a move will not be happening.