Celtic Frustration: Idah Exit Leaves Attack Void
- Celtic concluded the summer transfer window facing criticism for failing to adequately replace departing strikers, raising concerns about their attacking options for the season ahead.
- Celtic's striker situation has deteriorated over two transfer windows. The initial blow came seven months ago with the sale of prolific goalscorer Kyogo furuhashi.Despite this significant loss, the...
- Manager Brendan Rodgers publicly stated his reluctance to allow players to leave without guaranteed replacements, specifically expressing a preference for having two centre-forwards, notably if Idah were to...
Celtic’s Striker shortfall: Transfer Window Leaves Fans Frustrated
Table of Contents
Celtic concluded the summer transfer window facing criticism for failing to adequately replace departing strikers, raising concerns about their attacking options for the season ahead.
The Striker Situation: A Timeline of Departures
Celtic’s striker situation has deteriorated over two transfer windows. The initial blow came seven months ago with the sale of prolific goalscorer Kyogo furuhashi.Despite this significant loss, the club did not immediately secure a replacement. This issue was compounded by the recent departure of Adam Idah to Swansea, leaving a void in the central striker position.
Manager Brendan Rodgers publicly stated his reluctance to allow players to leave without guaranteed replacements, specifically expressing a preference for having two centre-forwards, notably if Idah were to depart. However, the window closed with only two new centre-forwards signed – Callum Osmand (19, unproven) and Shin Yamada (limited goal record).
failed Transfer Targets and Last-Ditch Efforts
Celtic pursued several potential signings to address the striker shortage, but faced setbacks. Attempts to secure Anderlecht forward Kasper Dolberg were reportedly thwarted by Ajax. The club also reportedly approached Chelsea’s David Datro Fofana, but he opted for a loan move to Charlton rather.
A recurring target, Kelechi Iheanacho, emerged as a late possibility after Sevilla announced his departure. Rodgers had previously attempted to bring Iheanacho to the club during the winter window, but the player ultimately joined Middlesbrough on loan, where he scored only once in 15 appearances. His spell at Sevilla was also unproductive, failing to score in La Liga.
Current Striker Options and Potential Solutions
With limited options, Celtic might potentially be forced to rely on existing squad members. Daizen Maeda, who successfully transitioned into a central role following Furuhashi’s departure in january, could be deployed as the primary striker. Though, this places significant pressure on Maeda.
Johnny Kenny, a 22-year-old from Sligo, remains relatively unproven in Celtic colours. The two summer signings, Callum Osmand and Shin Yamada, are considered developmental prospects and are not yet ready to lead the line consistently. Yamada has yet to score for the club after arriving with a modest record of two goals in 21 J-League appearances.
| Player | Age | Recent Club | Goals (Recent Form) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kelechi Iheanacho | 28 | Sevilla | 0 (La Liga) |
| Callum Osmand | 19 | Fulham | 0 (First Team) |
| Shin Yamada | N/A | J-League | 2 (21 appearances) |
| johnny Kenny | 22 | Celtic | Limited |
| Daizen Maeda | N/A | Celtic | Variable |