Toulouse are reportedly eyeing up a replacement for Celtic target Christopher Jullien.
The Hoops have been linked with a potential £8million move for the French defender (L’Equipe). With the Hoops having real problems at centre-back, it wouldn’t be surprising if they did spend big to sort it out.
And it appears as though Toulouse are preparing for their stalwart’s departure too. According to French media outlet Les Violets, the Ligue 1 side have identified Pablo Martinez as Jullien’s replacement. Les Violets claims that it’s “probable” that Jullien departs this summer.
Of course, Celtic aren’t the only club interested in Jullien either. La Liga side Celta Vigo have also been credited with interest (Scottish Sun), and that could be a potential blow to the Hoops. La Liga would always be a tempting offer if Vigo manage to agree a fee.
As of yet, there are no reports that an agreement has been reached with any club for Jullien. It appears, whatever the asking price is, it hasn’t as of yet been met.
A priority position needing sorted immediately
When it comes to areas Celtic NEED to strengthen, centre-back is joint-highest with right-back. Both Filip Benkovic and Dedryck Boyata have yet to be replaced, with Champions League qualifiers just around the corner.
Indeed, the Hoops will find out who their opponents are for the first qualifying round today. The tie will then take place in just several weeks’ time. Jullien, therefore, must be a priority target.
Ideally, Celtic would have two centre-backs in before the qualifiers too. After all, two key ones did depart. But if Celtic can manage to lure Jullien to Parkhead before the qualifiers, then Kristoffer Ajer would be a reliable partner.
We could have the advantage in any deal for the Frenchman too. Jullien was reportedly given a tour of the Celtic facilities (L’Equipe), so if that’s the case then it could help swing a deal in our favour.
Jullien was a regular for Toulouse last season too. He managed 35 appearances for the French outfit. 34 of them came from the starting XI. There’s pedigree there, but Toulouse also only just avoided a relegation dogfight by four points.
Hopefully Celtic make a quick move on this one, as centre-backs continue to be a desperate must-have at Parkhead.
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