Man Utd ‘keeping tabs’ on Celtic ace as potential replacement for defender

Manchester United are reportedly keeping tabs on Celtic defender Josip Juranovic. The Croatia international caught the eye at the World Cup last month in Qatar.

According to Sky Sports (live transfer blog, 10.01.22, 16.02), the Red Devils have ‘looked’ at the Hoops ace as they seek to bring in a right-back this winter. However, any swoop for a player in that position will apparently depend on the future of Aaron Wan-Bissaka this month.

United have a decision to make on what to do with the former Crystal Palace man. He has been linked with an exit but has started to get more game time under Erik ten Hag over recent weeks.

Juranovic, 27, has played for current club Celtic since 2021 and has become one of their most prized assets now. He has made 50 appearances in all competitions for the Glasgow giants to date and has chipped in with six goals from the back. Serie A side Monza are also reported to be keen on luring him away from Scotland, as per the Daily Mail.

The full-back helped Ange Postecoglou’s side win the Scottish Premiership title last term but they will be sweating over his future. They have already brought in right-back Alistair Johnson from CF Montreal which suggests they fear he could be on his way out.

United’s chances of luring Juranovic down to England will be determined by what happens with Wan-Bissaka. 90min reported last month he was wanted by fellow top flight sides Crystal Palace, Wolves, West Ham and Leeds.