English Premier League side West Ham United have reportedly been left impressed by Celtic defender Josip Juranovic as they eye up potential defensive reinforcements.
But, any move for the Croatian would depend on whether Bayer Leverkusen’s interest in current West Ham man Vladimir Coufal comes to fruition.
Juranovic has been a mainstay in Ange Postecoglou’s side since his arrival from Legia Warsaw last summer for just £2.5 million.
His performances for the Hoops have also earned him the starting role in the Croatian national team, and he is currently starring for his country in Qatar.
Following a successful 18 months at Parkhead, plenty of transfer interest has come the defender’s way, with clubs being linked in the summer.
The likes of Chelsea and Athletic Madrid were reportedly interested. But Juranovic remained at Celtic and has gone on to play in the UEFA Champions League for the Bhoys.
As we approach the January transfer window, more transfer speculation is likely to come the right-back’s way, especially after Celtic’s pursuit of a new option in the back four, Alistair Johnston.
According to a report from 90min, English Premier League side West Ham United has been left ‘impressed’ by Juranovic and could potentially make a move for the right-back in January.
However, transfer interest in the 27-year-old, or any fullback for that matter, would depend on Bayer Leverkusen’s pursuit of Czech Republic international Vladimir Coufal.
Former Celtic man could have an effect on West Ham’s Juranovic interest
What makes this link very interesting is that another former Celtic player could have a huge effect on West Ham’s interest in Josip Juranovic.
Reports from Sky Sports in Germany have suggested that Leverkusen are extremely interested in bringing Coufal to the club, which could potentially see him replace Jeremie Frimpong.
The ex-Celtic defender has been on brilliant form since his arrival back in January 2021 and is now attracting interest from clubs across the globe.
The most significant is Manchester United, who are keen to hold talks with the Dutchman after the World Cup regarding a move in the winter.
So if Frimpong was to join the English giants, then you would imagine that would push through Coufal’s move to the Bundesliga.
Therefore, West Ham would be on the hunt for a new right back, and after being left impressed by Juranovic, the Celtic man could be the one they go after.
It will certainly be interesting to see how this potentially plays out.
What we do know, from a Celtic perspective, although the club are anticipating offers for Juranovic, we still hold all the cards, and if West Ham’s interest comes to light, they will have to pay a big fee for the right back.
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