Celtic would require a ‘big fee’ to consider letting Kyogo Furuhashi leave this summer, according to journalist Pete O’Rourke.

The Lowdown: Crystal Palace interest

The Hoops striker’s contract isn’t set to expire until 2025, but being the top goalscorer in the Scottish Premiership as it stands, he’s been generating interest ahead of the upcoming window.

Football Insider report that Crystal Palace are scouting the 28-year-old as they weigh up whether to make an approach at the end of the season should Patrick Vieira’s talisman, Wilfried Zaha, depart.

The Bhoys, however, reportedly want to build their side around the Japan international and could be set to offer him an extension to retain his services beyond the current campaign.

The Latest: O’Rourke’s comments

Speaking to GiveMeSport, O’Rourke heaped praise on Kyogo and suggested that Celtic would only consider a sale should they have a sizeable offer on the table. He said:

“I think it would take a big fee for Celtic to cash-in on Kyogo. He's proved at Celtic what a top player he is. He has such clever movement and is a real deadly finisher as well.

“He's got a real good goalscoring record for Celtic, he’s the top scorer in the Scottish Premiership this season as well, so [it's] no surprise that there are clubs looking at him.”

The Verdict: Keep hold of him

Kyogo is a fan favourite at Celtic and considering the huge impact he has on the team, the club need to do everything they can to keep hold of him for the foreseeable.

The Asics-sponsored star has netted an outstanding 19 goals and registered two assists in just 24 league outings this term, averaging 2.5 shots per game.

The Ikoma native currently has a match rating of 7.12, making him Ange Postecoglou’s top-performing offensive player, further highlighting his importance at Parkhead.

Finally, the versatile forward has been labelled a ‘superb’ player by journalist Josh Bunting so offering him a new deal as a reward for his efforts would be nothing less than he deserves.