Celtic have confirmed the departure of fringe player Oh Hyeon-gyu, just 18 months after his arrival at Parkhead. The South Korean forward, who cost the Scottish champions £2.5 million in January 2023, has been sold to Belgian club Genk for £4.5 million.
Oh was signed from Korean K-League side Suwon Samsung Bluewings on a five-year contract, with Celtic’s scouts impressed by his potential.
However, the 23-year-old struggled to secure a regular starting position, failing to displace Kyogo Furuhashi or Adam Idah as Brendan Rodgers’ first-choice striker.
During his time in Glasgow, Oh scored 12 goals in 47 appearances. Last season, he managed five goals in 26 games across all competitions but featured only three times since January, with appearances against Kilmarnock and St Mirren in the Premiership and the Scottish Cup.
The move to Genk has been welcomed by the Belgian club’s Head of Football, Dimitri de Conde.
“Hyeon-gyu is a striker with a nose for goals who is not afraid to make dirty meters,” he said. “He is a quick player who, thanks to his stature, also offers a strong presence in the box.”
Oh expressed his enthusiasm for the new chapter in his career via Genk’s official website:
“KRC Genk is a team that has a lot of experience in training young players,” he stated. “When the interest became concrete, my choice was immediately clear. I can’t wait to show myself.”
Celtic’s decision to part ways with Oh comes as part of a broader strategy to refine their squad. The forward was largely used as a substitute and struggled to make a significant impact on the pitch. His departure opens up opportunities for other players to step up and fill the void.
While Oh’s time at Celtic did not pan out as hoped, his transfer to Genk provides a fresh start. The Belgian side is known for nurturing young talent and offering a platform for players to develop. Oh’s addition to their squad is expected to bolster their attacking options.
Reflecting on his tenure at Celtic, it’s evident that Oh’s stint was marked by limited opportunities. Yet, he leaves with the club’s best wishes and the hope that he will thrive in his new environment. The transfer underscores the dynamic nature of football careers and the constant evolution of team rosters.
As Celtic continue to adjust their squad, the focus remains on achieving success in domestic and international competitions. Oh’s move to Genk is a reminder of the ever-changing landscape of football, where players and clubs alike seek the best paths to growth and success.