KYOGO RETURN EDGES CLOSER

Japan ace keen on switch as Birmingham clear path

- MICHAEL GANNON

CELTIC are on the verge of convincing Kyogo Furuhashi to make a blockbuster comeback at Parkhead.

The Hoops want the 30-year-old to return for the Premiership push - and Birmingham City won't stand in his way.

Express Sport understands the decision lies with the Japan ace as he weighs up his next move and he is warming to the switch.

Kyogo is on a bumper contract at Birmingham until 2028 but has failed to catch fire in the Midlands.

City are willing to listen to offers and Celts are offering a short-term escape.

Kyogo has spent the last 24 hours assessing his options but has been told Celtic cannot afford to wait - with returning boss Martin O'Neill desperate to add firepower immediately. Celts have other leads but see Kyogo as a quick-fire low-risk move, despite the attacker suffering a miserable 12 months since he left Parkhead.