Celtic have been sweating over the future of their right fullback Josip Jurnovic for quite some time. The Croatian has emerged as a summer target for many top European outfits and his agent Hussein Algaaod has now shared an update while speaking to Index (as cited by the Daily Record) recently.
“So far, several clubs from the five leagues have shown interest in bringing him in, but there is no concrete agreement.”
Celtic are keen on retaining the 26-year-old who hit the ground running soon after securing a £2.5m transfer from Legia Warsaw less than a year ago. The suitors must splash an astronomical figure to convince the Hoops and the asking fee might even be more than the rumoured £15m figure as revealed by his representative.
If the reports are believed to be true, Atletico Madrid are leading the race for the Croatia international. They are targetting a right-back following Kieran Trippier’s winter move to Newcastle United and club president Enrique Cerezo addressed the issue without naming anyone in an interview with AS.
“Well, the midfield we already have. It is Witsel, which as you all know is practically done, and on the right side we are looking for it.”
Juranovic progressed through the youth ranks of Dubrava before breaking into their senior side back in 2013. His impressive spell earned the attention of HNK Hajduk Split and the Prva HNL heavyweights eventually promoted him as a first-team regular from 2015 onwards. Celtic scouted him at Legia during his one-year stint and his aggressive style of play saw him settling down instantly at Parkhead.
Why Celtic Must Keep Hold Of Juranovic
Although the Bhoys were boosted by Anthony Ralston’s emergence, Juranovic replaced him down the right exhibiting a balanced approach between attack and defence. His attributes suit Ange Postecoglou’s free-flowing game whereas his flexibility grabbed a lot of attention when he slotted in down the left during Greg Taylor’s injury absence.
Celtic, meanwhile, have parted ways with Liam Scales who deputized Taylor as a left fullback in a number of games. The Irishman has joined Aberdeen for regular gametime, but the club are closing in on Lanús’ youngster Alexandro Bernabei to challenge and cover the Scotsman.
The Celts might make a significant financial profit from Juranovic’s departure, but his exit would weaken them on the right even if they rope in another new name before the window is slammed shut. The challenge is sterner this term having secured a place in the Champions League group stages and Postecoglou must prioritize a decent European run more than the Premiership title defence. He still has four more years left in his Celtic deal and another blistering season would ensure more money if they listen to offers in 2023.
