Anthony Joseph was quick to play down speculation that Josip Juranovic could be on his way to Atletico Madrid.
While confirming that there is interest in the Celtic defender, Joseph announced that no offers have yet been made. Normally reporters with the same employer are more supportive of their colleagues stories.
Fabrizio Romano was first to break the news of serious interest in Juranovic, although no clubs or prices were mentioned it confirmed that the 26-year-old’s form was being noted by clubs in the major league. Juranovic is now a regular in the Croatian international team.
An hour after his colleague Lyall Thomas tweeted news of Atletico’s interest Joseph updated his Twitter account with:
UPDATE: Celtic are aware that many clubs are interested in signing right-back Josip Juranovic. However, they have not received any offers for the Croatia international and they do not want to sell him this summer. It would take a huge bid from a club for that stance to change.
Thomas had tweeted:
Exclusive: #AtleticoMadrid are interested in signing #Celtic right-back Josip Juranovic. More on #SSN and online soon:
Later on Joseph added:
Worth noting that Celtic are in a very strong position here: 1. Celtic do not need to sell this summer – they are in the #UCL next season and guaranteed the £40m riches that come with it. 2. Juranovic still has four years left on his contract.
Where will Juranovic be after the summer transfer window closes?
Celtic, we will keep him for the Champions League
Elsewhere, the signs are there, news leaking out
Atletico are unlikely to be the last club linked with Juranovic, after selling Kieran Trippier to Newcastle in January the Spanish side will be looking to strengthen that position.
With more than two months left of the transfer window the Juranovic story is going to be ticking along in the background. Kieran Tierney’s transfer to Arsenal three years ago means that nothing can be ruled out, every club and player has a price no matter how happy they might appear at a particular time.
Ange Postecoglou is street-wise enough to know what is going on, if Juranovic has to be sold he’ll have a replacement or two in mind to ensure minimal disruption with Tony Ralston playing in the last five matches of the 21/22 season.
