It’s notable that two of Celtic’s biggest stars have had their contracts renewed recently, despite there being no major rush to do so. Both captain Callum McGregor and talismanic striker Kyogo Furuhashi have committed years more to Celtic – neither renewal was likely to have come cheaply.
There’s no great source when it comes to Scottish football wages – we’ll never know for sure – but both McGregor and Kyogo will be amongst the highest earners in the Celtic squad given their contributions, status and market value.
McGregor last renewed his contract in 2021, until the summer of 2026. While Kyogo was already signed up to 2025. So why are the bumper new deals coming now? Could it be that Celtic are undergoing a slight realignment of the wage structure that allows a higher tier of player to arrive at the Bhoys?
That may seem a leap, and yes it’s just speculation, but it’s not a theory without merit. If the Bhoys are truly shopping in a grander market this summer – for players beyond Cameron Carter-Vickers and Odsonne Edouard levels in terms of value – then it makes sense that they’ll come with heftier wage demands too.
In recent years, it’s likely not even been transfer fees holding back the Bhoys from making some signings, but wages. And this summer they won’t be eager to bring in players that are immediately earning more than some of our most important stars – such as McGregor and Kyogo. So it stands to reason to give them a bump, pushing up the ceiling available to offer new additions.
I don’t think there’s a big change in approach here. It makes enough sense to sign McGregor and Kyogo up for a longer Celtic stay regardless of any other context – but the timing is interesting with their deals coming before the most major business of the window is completed.
I truly believe this will be a summer of solid and significant transfer business from the Bhoys. All the signs are pointing to it. Record turnover, the Jota sale, more Champions League cash, Brendan Rodgers’ return and reports of the hefty budget he will be given. Now, added to that, this boost in salary for our top earners.
The deals are coming and it could be the start of a bold new era for this football club. They will always act responsibly – that’s not in doubt – but a bit of added ambition could be on the cards here. Watch this space.
In other news, How Brendan Rodgers aims to improve Daizen Maeda further under his watch at Celtic.
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