Rumours broke out recently that contract talks had broken down between Celtic and Josip Juranovic, and as a result, the club were ready to transfer him after the World Cup. The Croatian still has a long-term deal with the Hoops, but a good showing at the tournament in Qatar would mean that his value would be at its highest. At 27 years of age, he is also entering his prime.
It was just last year that Celtic had signed Juranovic from Legia Warsaw for a transfer fee believed to be around £2.5 million, but the Hoops will be hoping for a figure of more than £15 million, if or when they decide to let the Croatian go.
Of course, Juranovic has been a nailed on starter for Celtic since arriving at the club, but at the same time, Ange Postecoglou has dropped hints that some first-team stars could be on their way out soon. All signs were pointing towards the Croatian being one of them but now, there seems to be another twist in the tale.
It looks like the contract talks have not completely broken down between the two parties but have instead been put on hold, and it is still possible that a new deal could be signed after the World Cup. The highly reliable Mark Hendry tweeted out:
It is my understanding Josip Juranovic #Celtic talks have been put on hold as club seriously considering selling player after World Cup to maximise profit.
— Mark Hendry (@mhendry92) November 16, 2022
Contract could still potentially be signed but it will be assessed by the club after tournament.@Football_Scot
Another twist in Juranovic’s future at Celtic and potential exit after World Cup
Juranovic leaving would be a blow for Celtic, especially in the middle of the season. At the same time though, the club have a very decent cover option in Anthony Ralston.
Ralston has looked like a player transformed since the arrival of Postecoglou as manager, and has come up with some big moments for the Hoops as well. Arguably, he has not gotten the chances that he deserves, due to the presence of Juranovic ahead of him in the pecking order.
At the same time though, one would have to feel that if Juranovic does leave, the Hoops will bring in a replacement, considering the transfer fee that they can expect out of his departure.