The REAL reason Kyogo has Man City interested as Celtic masterclass could see Pep Guardiola smash transfer record

Boss Pep Guardiola was convinced that Kyogo Furuhashi is the right fit for Manchester City after his Celtic masterclass in pre-season.

That is according to Celtic TV pundit Peter Grant - who reckons the "outstanding" showing has put the Japan international on the agenda for the English Premier League champions. Reports suggest that City are considering a £20m move for the 29-year-old after selling Julian Alvarez to Atletico Madrid in a blockbuster £82million deal - just weeks after the forward netted against the Citizens in Scottish Premiership champion's 4-3 friendly win during their pre-season tour of America.

The Times report that Celtic would hold out for a "club record" fee for the frontman as they have "no need to sell" a player with a contract at Parkhead until 2027. Matt O'Riley's move to Brighton is expected to surpass £25m and set a new club record should the midfielder seal his switch to the Seagulls. It is noted that a move for Kyogo is "under consideration along with another younger forward" to compete with Erling Haaland next season.

And discussing the moment that caught the eye of Guardiola, former Celtic hero Grant pinpointed the display Stateside. He told the Go Radio Football Show: "He was outstanding in that particular match. I really like Kyogo - I think his movement is excellent on the top line. The pleasing thing for me if that was to happen it would mean that when Manchester City - probably the best club side in the world - are interested in one of your players, it tells you that you are doing something right. He is a top, top quality player, but Manchester City level? I'm not sure."

After the full-time whistle in the pre-season friendly, the City boss was quick to heap praise on Brendan