Celtic supporters have been left stunned following the leak of private social media messages allegedly exchanged between former Hoops striker Kyogo Furuhashi and Rangers captain James Tavernier. The leaked conversations appear to show Tavernier attempting to convince Kyogo to leave his current club, Rennes, and make a sensational move to Ibrox.
Kyogo, who joined French side Stade Rennais FC in January 2025 after a successful stint at Celtic, remains a beloved figure among the Parkhead faithful. During his time in Scotland, he won multiple trophies and became a key player under Brendan Rodgers. However, the leaked messages have now thrown his future into question.
The conversations, which surfaced on social media, allegedly feature Tavernier trying to lure Kyogo to the blue half of Glasgow. In one of the messages, Tavernier reportedly wrote:
“You know how much we rate you, mate. You’d be a perfect fit here at Ibrox. The fans will love you if you give them a chance.”
Kyogo
“I never thought about it before… I know how big the rivalry is. But I just want to play football where I feel wanted.”
Tavernier states:
“Forget the past, mate. Football moves fast, and you’d be a legend here. Just think about it.”
Kyogo: Ok ❤️
Celtic fans have been vocal in their outrage, taking to social media to express their disbelief at the idea of their former hero even considering a move to Ibrox. One supporter wrote on X (formerly Twitter):
“Kyogo at Rangers? That would be the ultimate betrayal. He was our golden boy. Hope this is all fake.”
Another added:
“If Kyogo even thinks about joining them, he’ll never be welcomed back at Celtic Park again.”
Meanwhile, Rangers fans have been divided. Some are excited at the prospect of such a high-profile signing, while others doubt Kyogo would ever agree to the move given his deep connection with former club Celtic.
One Rangers supporter wrote:
“Would love to see Kyogo at Ibrox, but I just can’t see it happening. Too much history there.”
Another, however, was more optimistic:
“If he’s open to it, we should go all out to get him. He’s a quality player, and players move clubs all the time.”
“Kyogo is adored by the Celtic fans. If he even entertains this move from Rennes to rangers, it could destroy his legacy at Parkhead. But in football, never say never.”
On the other hand, a former Rangers player speaking to the media anonymously suggested:
“It would be a massive coup for Rangers. Kyogo is a top talent, and if he’s considering it, the club should do everything to make it happen.”
So far, neither Kyogo nor his representatives have commented on the situation, and Rangers have not issued any statement regarding the alleged messages. Until there is official confirmation, speculation will continue to dominate the discussion among fans and pundits.
For Celtic fans, the idea of Kyogo joining Rangers is almost unthinkable. But if the leaked messages are genuine, it may suggest that the Japanese striker is keeping his options open.
As the summer transfer window approaches, all eyes will be on Kyogo and whether he responds to the rumors.
