Celtic’s attempt to sign Korea Republic forward Cho Gue-sung looks to be well down the line with 24-year-olds father confirming a deal is close [Football Scotland].
It was revealed that Ange Postecoglou had targeted a fullback and striker as key positions during this January transfer window with Canadian defender Alistair Johnston having already been brought in during this window alongside Yuki Kobayashi.
Gue-sung is currently the second top goalscorer in the K League 1 this season having scored 14 goals.
He has also rose to prominence during the World Cup in Qatar with his international side reaching the knockout stages of the tournament before being knocked out by favourites Brazil.
There is reportedly a number of clubs showing interest in the Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors striker but Celtic appear to be in the driving seat as they get set to sign another World Cup star with Gue-sung’s father confirming the goal machine is finalising a January switch.
He said as quoted by football scotland, “The advice I have given my son is when he signs for a team abroad, go to a club that can play the way he likes, rather than choosing a club because they are a big name.
“He needs a club that will help him adapt and settle down to a new lifestyle on and off the pitch.
“I know his agent is in the process of finalising negotiations regarding his transfer overseas. He will certainly go to Europe.
“Ahead of the World Cup, I told him that this was a tournament that he had to show everyone what he could do on the pitch and I think he did that.
“He has had a great time at the World Cup and I am certainly very proud of him.”
Celtic as a club have created a pathway for players looking to thrive in Europe with the offer of Champions League group stage football being on offer.
Gue-sung’s arrival could indicate that Greek forward Giorgos Giakoumakis could be heading for the exit door soon with there being complications around his current deal.
He is tied to the Scottish champions until 2026 with the Hoops being in full control of the situation.
