Celtic: O’Rourke makes Juranovic claim

Journalist Pete O’Rourke has made a claim involving Celtic defender Josip Juranovic amidst reported interest this summer.

The lowdown: Atletico Madrid watching

Recently, Sky Sports’ Lyall Thomas shared news that Spanish giants Atletico are keen on acquiring the full-back’s services after an impressive debut campaign in Glasgow.

The Times then reported that the Hoops would be looking for a fee in the region of £15million for the 26-year-old only signed from Legia Warsaw on a five-year deal in 2021.

Now, one informed onlooker has shed some light on the current state of play between the Scottish Champions, Juranovic and the possibility of a move away during the ongoing transfer window…

The latest: O’Rourke on Juranovic

Speaking to Give Me Sport, O’Rourke has suggested that Celtic would be reluctant to sell the 20-cap Croatia international despite the potential to earn a lofty profit on their £2.5million expenditure (Sky Sports).

The journalist said: “Juranovic has proved himself to be a good signing for Celtic since joining the club last summer. He’s played at right-back and left-back and has performed well for Postecoglou’s side.

“So, I’m sure Postecoglou would prefer to keep him at Celtic Park, especially as they prepare to be back in the Champions League next season.”

The verdict: Drive a hard bargain

Ultimately, such is the position of strength the club finds itself in right now, it would need to be a bid that would blow the Parkhead hierarchy’s original outlay of the water to even tempt the Bhoys into a sale of a prized asset so soon after arriving in Glasgow.

During the successful 2021/22 season, Juranovic scored six times and provided four assists in 44 appearances across all competitions, earning an outstanding 7.21 Sofascore rating whilst helping keep 11 clean sheets in the Premiership in the process to highlight a well-rounded overall game.

Although the emergence of Anthony Ralston allows for Ange Postecoglou to dovetail his two right-back options accordingly, the experienced Croatian – who was lauded as a ‘beautiful footballer’ by journalist Josh Bunting in February – will undoubtedly remain a key cog in the side next season as Celtic return to UEFA Champions League action.