Chris Sutton has given his verdict on Celtic’s busy January transfer window so far, reacting to the returns of Kieran Tierney and Jota while saying what he believes the club must do next.
The former Hoops striker welcomed the news that Tierney will be rejoining the club after signing a pre-contract agreement, with Celtic now waiting on Arsenal’s decision regarding a possible loan deal for the remainder of the season. Sutton also acknowledged that Jota’s return may take time to bear fruit, given his lack of regular football since leaving Parkhead 18 months ago.
But Sutton made it clear that the club now need to focus on signing a ‘top-class’ centre forward to replace Kyogo Furuhashi, who completed a £10 million move to Rennes earlier this week.
Taking to social media, Sutton said:
“Great news to hear Kieran Tierney will return to Celtic.
Jota may need a bit of time and patience on his return but at 25 should have his best years ahead of him.
Just a top-class centre forward required to replace Kyogo…”
Great news to hear Kieran Tierney will return to Celtic.
Jota may need a bit of time and patience on his return but at 25 should have his best years ahead of him.
Just a top class centre forward required to replace Kyogo…🍀— Chris Sutton (@chris_sutton73) January 28, 2025
Kyogo’s departure was confirmed shortly after Jota’s return, with Brendan Rodgers admitting the Japanese forward made it clear that he wanted a new challenge. The 30-year-old had been linked with a move to Atlanta United in MLS, but Rennes pushed ahead to secure his signature.
Celtic have until the 3rd of February to bring in a striker to replace the Japanese ace.
