Italian outlet TMW claim that Barcelona are interested in signing Celtic defender Josip Juranovic ahead of the January window – with the Croatia World Cup star expected to leave Parkhead next month, after an impressive month in Qatar.
Juranovic, 27, has sparkled since joining Celtic from Legia Warsaw. He has already clocked up 50 games for the Bhoys, winning a Premiership title and the League Cup. But after just 18 months, the right-back looks set to be on the move.
Indeed, his form at the World Cup was impressive. According to The Sunday Post (11/12, back page), Newcastle and Chelsea are among Juranovic’s suitors. That list is continuing to grow, with two Spanish heavyweights keen on a move.
TMW report both Barcelona and Atletico Madrid want to land the Celtic ace come January. While it is a bit of a surprise given Barcelona signed Hector Bellerin from Arsenal in the summer – it is a sign of just how good Juranovic has been.
Barcelona interested in signing Celtic defender Juranovic after WC form
Do Barcelona have the cash to be able to compete with some of the Premier League’s biggest sides in the race for the Celtic defender? That is a question that will be answered in January. But, Juranovic will certainly be tempted by Xavi.
What is clear, is that Juranovic looks more than likely to go. Celtic now have three right-backs on the books after the signing of Alistair Johnston – who faced Juranovic with Canada at the World Cup. Anthony Ralston remains at Celtic.
So, where would be best for Juranovic? A move to Barca would be huge for him. But would he be better off joining a club where is going to be first choice? Newcastle might offer that in a year or two, with Kieran Trippier getting older.
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