As the clock ticked towards 11pm on transfer deadline day, Celtic’s search to replace star striker Kyogo Furuhashi hit a wall.
Linked with Danny Ings and Kelechi Iheanacho in the last week, head coach Brendan Rodgers has said he wanted Celtic to emerge from the transfer window with a squad that was stronger than the one he entered it with. While that is of course up for debate, it is hard to deny the inability to replace their former Japanese hitman before the window close leaves them looking a little short up top.
Adam Idah has shown he can step up in his absence, scoring three goals in his last two games, but his back-up options come in the form of inexperienced youngsters Daniel Cummings and Johnny Kenny, though many will attest Daizen Maeda can revert from a wide-left position to feature more centrally if required.
With free agents still very much an option for Rodgers, we decided to look at the best striking options to him, should he decide to take that route. It is slim pickings, but should injuries hit, it could be a case of needs must for the Northern Irish manager.
Here are 9 free agents strikers Celtic could target for transfer - and three alternative options already in their squad.

5. Maxi Gomez
Once a hot prospect with a high release clause at Valencia during his younger years, Gomez has fallen from grace over the last couple of years, and is currently available after an underwhelming spell time at Trabzonspor. Could Brendan Rodgers help him rediscover him form on a short term deal? Stranger things have happened. | AFP via Getty Images Photo: Getty Images

6. Diego Costa
At 36, this former Chelsea and Wolves striker was recently released by Gremio. Known for his physical presence and goal-scoring prowess, he could still be an asset for clubs needing experience and leadership. Scored 53 goals in the EPL for the likes of Chelsea and Wolverhampton Wanderers. | Getty Images Photo: Getty Images

7. Lucas Perez
At 36, he is definitely a short-term option. Perez could offer some versatility though. Capable as a nine, or on the wing. He scored four goals in 19 appearances for Deportivo last season. Hardly exciting, though. | Getty Images

8. Andrea Compagno
The little known Italian would be an intriguing option for Celtic, based on his goal scoring record and age. Just 28-years-old, Compagno has had a varied career that has saw him play in Romania, San Marino and - most recently - for Tianjin Jinmen Tiger in China. Scored 19 league goals in 40 games for Europa League outfit FCSB (also known as FC Steaua București) between 2022 and 2024, and scored a further 17 in 26 in his sole season in the Chinese Super League. | BELGA MAG/AFP via Getty Images

