Celtic's hopes of re-signing Julián Araujo have been ended by a significant injury. The Bhoys have been linked with a fresh move for the right-back who spent the back-end of last season on loan from AFC Bournemouth.
The Bhoys are now facing the very real possibility of losing right-back Alistair Johnston to Everton, with the Canadian international now said to have told the club he wants to complete the move.
Araujo may have been a genuine option for the Bhoys, especially given the relationship he already has with the club, whether it would have been a loan of permanent deal, but the defender is now set for a period on the sidelines.
Araujo ruled out after surgery
AFC Bournemouth have now confirmed that Araujo has undergone surgery that will likely keep him out for some time. A statement read: "Julián Araujo has undergone successful surgery on his left thigh after sustaining a muscle injury on the club’s pre-season tour in Austria.
"He will be supported by the club’s medical department as he navigates a period of rehabilitation. All at the club extend their best wishes to Julian and look forward to him making a full recovery."
Of course, it wasn't clear that Celtic were interested or targeting Araujo, but this likely means he will not be an option until at least January. Thigh injuries are particularly difficult to get back from, especially when they require surgery, given the demands football places on thigh and hamstring muscles.
Every injury is different, but players like Reece James, who is also a right-back, had a torrid time getting back from a thigh injury that required surgery. For Araujo's sake, one would hope he has a much more expedient return process and gets back to full speed as soon as possible.
Meanwhile, Celtic will have to look elsewhere to find a Johnston replacement.
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