Earlier today, reports suggested that Celtic defender Josip Juranovic was attracting interest from English Premier League side Chelsea.
Having only spent one season in Glasgow, the right-back is already being eyed up by some of the biggest club’s in the world, with Atletico Madrid also watching the Croatian closely this summer window.
There is no denying that the 26-year-old possesses excellent quality, showcasing that in Scotland and on the European stage this season.
So, it is no surprise to see Juranovic being linked with some massive clubs interested in adding him to their defensive ranks.
Of course, every player has their price, and at a club like Celtic, we have become well accustomed to some of the best members of our squad departing for big money fees.
Juranovic could become the latest man from Parkhead to head down south, joining the likes of Kieran Tierney and Odsonne Edouard in the most expensive league in the world, should Chelsea’s interest go further.
However, I think the full-back has several reasons to think twice about a move to Stamford Bridge at this point, which may entice him to remain at Parkhead for at least another six months.
First of all, Chelsea already have a fantastic right-back option in Reece James. I am sure every football player will back themselves to break into any side. But, the Celtic defender would face an extremely hard task breaking into Thomas Tuchel’s starting 11.
When you consider that Juranovic is currently the first choice right-back for the Croatian National team, and there is a World Cup coming up later this year, regular game time might not be something he is willing to give up at this point in time.
After lifting the Scottish Premiership last season, Ange Postecoglou’s side has also earned a spot in this season’s Champions League group stage.
So, Juranovic will still be able to test himself at the very highest level, continuing to impress clubs across Europe and his national team boss whilst playing regular minutes at Celtic Park.
With the big money that a club like Chelsea are willing to spend on transfer fees and wages, there is every chance that the Celtic man could end up at the EPL side by the end of this month.
I am sure no Celtic fan would wish any bad will on Juranovic if he did choose to make a move down south, with arguably life-changing money at stake.
However, when you put all the above points into consideration, I believe it is becoming more likely we will see the defender remain part of Ange Postecoglou’s squad until the January window at the very least.
On several occasions, the player and his agent have made it clear he is happy at Parkhead despite interest from clubs across Europe.
And in any case, Chelsea’s interest may not come to anything, with Juranovic making up a list of potential options they could sign.
Fingers crossed, we see the right-back stay put at Celtic Park and continue his close bond with his teammates and the Parkhead faithful whilst playing on one of the biggest stages in world football.
In other news, “We are all ready” – Greg Taylor explains how Celtic are preparing for tricky Killie surface.
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