Cho Gue-Sung admits he expected a move to Europe in the winter transfer window after Celtic and others pursued him.
Alongside Mainz and teams in the MLS, Ange Postecoglou's side were keen on the Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors striker who had shone for South Korea at the World Cup last year. In the end, Celtic opted for countryman Oh and ended their pursuit of Gue-Sung, who has built up a large following in his native land, fuelled by his exploits in Qatar.
Speaking to Chosun ahead of the new K-League season, the forward has reiterated his desire to eventually play in the English Premier League as his ultimate goal. But the first foray into Europe was expected last month, although physical doubts emerged. He said: "I thought I would transfer when the offer came because I did well at the World Cup in Qatar. I had doubts while I was taking a break from exercising. I was thinking about when my body would come back if I went to Europe now. In particular, I heard a lot of advice from seniors and coaches around me.
"I gained a lot more than I thought in the last World Cup. My goal was to become a professional player, play games, and then become a member of the national team. Participating in the World Cup was also a dream. In the end, my dream came true, now I am ready for the next step.
"Everyone has a dream. Everyone has a different dream, however, it is not the dream to make a lot of money as a soccer player, the most important thing right now is to prepare well for the next step. My final goal is the Premier League. Of course, to advance to the Premier League, which is the final goal, I have to go through stages."
