Kyogo Furuhashi Linked with Shock Move to Birmingham City Following Rennes Struggles

Birmingham City are reportedly considering a bold summer move for Japanese striker Kyogo Furuhashi, as the former Celtic star looks set to cut short his stay in France after a difficult six months with Rennes.

From Glasgow glory to French frustration

Kyogo, 30, became a household name in Scotland with a remarkable tally of 85 goals in 165 appearances for Celtic, where he won multiple domestic honours and cemented his status as a fan favourite. Brought to Parkhead by Ange Postecoglou in 2021, he flourished in the Australian’s attacking system and continued to impress under Brendan Rodgers.

However, a January switch to Ligue 1 side Rennes failed to deliver the same success. Kyogo struggled to break into the first team and was largely left out of the club’s long-term plans, making just a handful of appearances without scoring.

Blues eye a proven goal-getter

Now, as Birmingham City prepare for life back in the Championship following promotion, the club are being linked with what local media are calling an “unexpected option” in Kyogo.

According to Birmingham Live, the Blues’ interest in the Japanese forward is more than just speculative. Manager Chris Davies, who worked closely with both Rodgers and Postecoglou during his coaching career, is believed to hold Kyogo in high regard. Should the club make a formal approach, Davies will likely seek glowing references from his former mentors.

Postecoglou has previously spoken in glowing terms about Kyogo’s mentality and work rate, calling him “a winner” and “a constant threat” in big matches. That kind of endorsement could weigh heavily in Birmingham’s recruitment thinking.

A proven path for Asian talent

Birmingham have already established themselves as a welcoming destination for Japanese and Korean players in recent years. Former Celtic teammate Tomoki Iwata was part of the squad last season, while Ayumu Yokoyama, Koji Miyoshi, Paik Seung-ho, and Lee Myung-jae have also featured for the Blues.

The club’s growing scouting presence in Asia could make Kyogo a realistic target—especially if Rennes are willing to offload the player in a cut-price deal.

Could Kyogo thrive in the Championship?

While a move from Ligue 1 to England’s second tier might appear surprising, Birmingham Live notes that “to assume Kyogo couldn’t make a difference in the Championship would be foolish.” The striker’s intelligent movement, sharp finishing, and tireless pressing are attributes that could translate well to the physical demands of English football.

Should the transfer materialise, Kyogo would immediately become one of the most technically gifted forwards in the division and a potential game-changer in Birmingham’s push to establish themselves in the Championship and beyond.