Cho Gue sung to Celtic hits transfer turbulence as striker 'won over by Mainz'

The protracted chase for the World Cup star could be reaching his end game according to two reports in South Korea.

In-demand Cho Gue–sung is reportedly leaning towards staying Jeonbuk IF he cannot secure a January transfer to Mainz.

Record Sport understands Celtic have offered £3million for the South Korea international which includes a 50 per cent sell-on fee of any future sale up to the value of around £5.3million. But Four Four Two Korea claim the World Cup star is willing to remain at his current club if a move to the Bundesliga doesn't materialise. They state his friendship with Lee Jae-sung makes Mainz the favourites to secure his services after being won over by their interest.

The same report reinforces Gue-sung's desire to test himself in Europe – which appears to rule out Minnesota United's bold attempt to lead the forward to Major League Soccer. Another report in South Korea, via xsportsnews, claims Jeonbuk director and Manchester United hero Park Ji-Sung is advising Gue-sung to wait until the summer – citing his own experience when joining PSV Eindhoven.

Celtic's search for a new forward could be escalated amid Giorgos Giakoumakis attracting suitors across the globe. J-League side Urawa Red Diamonds and Sampdoria both want the forward who is expected to leave Parkhead after talks over a new long-term proved unsuccessful.

But it remains to be seen if Gue-sung will be the man to replace him as he appears primed to stand put for now amid his soaring celebrity status in his homeland after his exploits in Qatar.

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