Elijah Just has made his expected move out of Motherwell this summer, but not to Celtic.
After a stellar campaign for European-bound Motherwell last term, Just continued his form at the 2026 World Cup for New Zealand.
Many wanted Celtic to sign Just this summer, but the powers that be seemingly didn’t even put money on the table to bring him to Glasgow.
Instead, Just has signed for Swansea, and when they officially confirmed his arrival, the statements from their Head coach, Vitor Matos, and Sporting Director, Ben Stevens, lauded and applauded his talents.
A new midfielder for Celtic?! 😃🍀 Does the possibility of Mika Baur joining excite you?
‘Phenomenal’ Celtic transfer target Elijah Just praised by Swansea
Head coach Vitor Matos said: “We’re very excited to bring Elijah into the team. He can play in more than one position, and his versatility will be a great fit in the side.
“Elijah joins us after performing well in all aspects of our recruitment process, and after a brilliant performance at the World Cup, and we are very happy to have him with us.”
Swansea City’s Sporting Director Ben Stevens adds: “Delighted for Elijah to join us; he will add quality to our attack with the ability to play in multiple positions.” said Stevens.
“He had a phenomenal World Cup with New Zealand, where he really introduced himself onto the world footballing stage after a standout season with Motherwell.
“We feel his profile is a strong fit for Vitor’s and the club’s footballing style, and this is an exciting opportunity for all parties.”
Celtic needed Elijah Just’s ‘versatility’
Not only was Just performing right in front of Celtic’s eyes, but he also did it in various roles.
Last season, many felt that Motherwell played the best football in the Premiership, and Just was at the heart of it all.
In 30 Premiership games, he scored seven goals and supplied eight assists, including scoring and assisting against the champions of Scotland.
Not forgetting that Just also scored two goals at the World Cup.
All while playing in six different positions, which would have been perfect for the Hoops, because they are lacking that magic, smooth play, and creativity in the final third.
| Positions Just played in… | Games | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| Attacking Midfield | 16 | 5 | 3 |
| Centre-Forward | 5 | – | – |
| Left Midfield | 5 | 1 | 1 |
| Right Midfield | 5 | – | 2 |
| Left Winger | 4 | 1 | – |
| Central Midfield | 3 | – | 2 |
Not only that, it has been suggested that Swansea signed Just for £6 million, plus add-ons.
Celtic’s club-record transfer is Arne Engels at £11 million, so once again, from a financial perspective, this would have been right in the club’s reach.
But instead, Just will now link up with Adam Idah and his former Well’s teammate, Stephen Welsh, at Swansea.
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