Juranovic backed to leave Celtic

Celtic right-back Josip Juranovic could leave this summer if Ange Postecoglou captures his latest target, according to ex-Hoops striker Frank McAvennie.

The Lowdown: Full-backs on the move?

The Hoops are about to embark on a hugely exciting 2022/23 season, not only starting it as Scottish Premiership champions but also returning to the Champions League.

While it is imperative that new signings come in this summer, it could also be that certain figures move on to raise funds and clear squad space, with Juranovic one of those linked with leaving Parkhead.

With Celtic tipped to sign George Baldock from Sheffield United, it could be that Postecoglou has three right-backs at his disposal, along with Juranovic and Anthony Ralston.

The Latest: McAvennie predicts summer exit

Reacting to the Baldock news in a chat with Football Insider, McAvennie talked up the Croatian’s chances of leaving, also not completely ruling out Ralston moving on instead:

“I don’t think they’ll want three right-backs. I could be wrong, I got it wrong last year about Anthony Ralston – I didn’t think he would make it.

“This manager has brought a new life to Ralston so I don’t know if he’d want another one in because him and Juranovic can swap over.

“But to bring in a third player, the writing would be on the wall – I don’t know if it would be for Juranovic or Tony. I don’t think Ralston would want to leave Celtic.”

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The Verdict: Three right-backs not needed

Juranovic was a strong performer for Celtic last season, scoring five goals in the league and Europa League combined, but if Baldock comes in, keeping hold of him may not make sense.

Will Postecoglou sign a new deal?

Yes

No

The Hoops could earn good money for the 26-year-old’s services – his contract doesn’t expire until 2026 – while Baldock and Ralston would be more than enough depth for Postecoglou at right-back.

The bottom line is that three players in that position is too many, in terms of keeping them all happy, so if Baldock joins, one of the current crop should head towards the exit door and Juranovic offers the biggest chance for significant profit.