Jeremy Toljan has been a Scottish Premiership regular since he joined Celtic on loan from Bundesliga title chasers Borussia Dortmund in January.
Johan Mjallby believes Celtic will not be able to call upon Jeremy Toljan next season but has given his backing to the much-maligned Mikael Lustig, in quotes reported by the Scottish Sun.
Toljan has been a regular on Celtic’s team sheet since he arrived on loan from Borussia Dortmund in the January transfer window, the 2017 Germany U21 European Championship winner impressing with his speed and swashbuckling style.
As a result, he has relegated long-serving Lustig to the bench at times. The veteran Swede has played in just half of The Hoops’ Scottish Premiership games since Toljan arrived.
But Celtic do not have the option to sign the former Hoffenheim star on a permanent deal when his loan comes to an end while Toljan himself has told Goal that he is hoping for a fresh start at Dortmund.
As a result, Mjallby believes Lustig still has a future at Parkhead with Toljan’s time at the club seemingly coming to an end.
“I know that Jeremy Toljan is on loan and will probably depart after this season,” said the former Bhoys defender. “I don’t really know what’s happening but I love Mikael as a player and a person.
“He’s been a fantastic servant and it depends what the club wants and what Mikael wants.
“Whatever they choose to do, I think you can always rely on Mikael. Obviously, he is injury-prone. He’s getting older. So you need back-up if you are going to keep hold of him.”
Celtic will probably need to target another right-back in the summer with Toljan making it rather clear that he does not see his long-term future at the Scottish Premiership champions. Though Lustig’s future is uncertain too with his contract due to expire in July.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
