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Celtic suffer Cho Gue-Sung transfer blow as shock reports claims Hoops are out of the running for Korean World Cup star

A SHOCK report in South Korea claims that Celtic target Cho Gue-Sung has RULED OUT a January transfer to the Hoops.

We were first to tell you how Ange Postecoglou's men were tracking the World Cup star.

Cho Gue-Sung of Korea Republic
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Cho Gue-Sung of Korea RepublicCredit: Getty
Ange Postecoglou has made the striker a key priority
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Ange Postecoglou has made the striker a key priorityCredit: PA

Hoops bosses have been locked in talks with his club Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors in London this week, with it understood the Premiership champions have tabled a £2.6m offer, with a 50 per cent sell-on clause up to £5.2m.

But a report in Four Four Two Korea claims that the star has set his sights on a move to German outfit Mainz instead - and could STAY in Korea if the Bundesliga outfit cannot thrash out a deal during this window.

Mainz bid a sum in the region of £2.6m for the star - but then seemingly admitted defeat in their pursuit, saying they've been priced out.

An offer from the United States is also on the table, with MLS side Minnesota United tabling an offer.

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But the report quotes an official saying: "Cho Kyu-sung's mind is leaning towards Mainz.

"He wants to advance to the European big leagues, and the Mainz coach is also deeply interested in Cho Gue-sung.

"If he can't head to Mainz, he thinks he'll stay in Jeonbuk. He is contemplating whether to go to Europe in the winter or summer."

Cho Gue-Sung has admitted that he has a dilemma as he considers how best to time his run into European football.

He has said: “Many articles came out, so I saw it too. I haven't heard anything specific.

"I heard that they are negotiating, but there are no concrete plans.

"I'm thinking about whether it's better to go in January or summer. I am talking with director Park Ji-Sung and director Kim Sang-shik.

"I am thinking about how to go to Europe.

"I always think it is important to do my best in a given position.

"Since there is nothing decided, I try to do my best in the given position comfortably.

"Communicating with the agent. I'm hearing about the transfer fee, but it's important.

"I can see how much the club wants me. The higher the transfer fee, the more I think I have to work harder and prepare better.”

Keep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page

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