Celtic have missed out on a reported transfer target, but it might just be for the better. The Bhoys have been heavily criticised for their transfer business this summer and rightly so.
The Hoops came into this summer knowing they needed significant recruitment, and more importantly, efficient recruitment. But with just two weeks until the start of the new season, only one new face has been recruited in Camilo Duran.
Celtic even failed to re-sign Kelechi Iheanacho despite wanting to, and they seemed to pretend to try to re-sign loan player Marcelo Saracchi, publicly signalling they wanted him back, but the player's agent later confirmed the interest was not serious.
Celtic pass on Elijah Just deal
Celtic have been heavily linked with a move for Motherwell star Elijah Just, who impressed for New Zealand during the World Cup, scoring twice in their first game, although they ultimately departed at the group stage.
Just also did well in the Scottish Premiership last season, but much of the buzz has come from the World Cup, and the price tag, which is reportedly £5million plus add-ons, has been inflated by his World Cup form.
In any case, Swansea City have now wrapped up a deal, moving to sign the winger to aid what they hope will be a playoff push next season.
"Swansea City have agreed a deal to sign Motherwell attacking midfielder Elijah Just, Sky Sports reporter Anthony Joseph posted on X. "It’s understood Motherwell are in line to receive a club-record fee initially, plus add-ons. The New Zealand international, 26, is due to arrive in Wales for a medical this week."
Celtic were right to stay away from Just
Just is a talented player, and he does have that something different, but a lot of the World Cup buzz and the praise from last season has felt like when a young player bursts onto the scene.
Just has some room to develop, but he is already 26 years of age, so it's also possible he is at or close to his best level already. You have to be careful not to get sucked into these World Cup hype bubbles, and Just does feel like one of those.
As well as he did for Motherwill, he didn't set the world alight, and his return of seven goals and eight assists, while very respectable, doesn't necessarily make him a player ready to compete for titles and in Europe.
He could absolutely be a good signing for Swansea, but we have not seen enough to say that he wouldn't be a risky signing for Celtic, and one who does not live up to the buzz of last season.
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