Get all your news in one place.
100’s of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Glasgow Live
Glasgow Live
Sport
Matthew Fulton

Josip Juranovic handed Chelsea quality billing but Celtic star told he won't replace current defender in potential big move

Josip Juranovic has the quality to play for English Premier League giants Chelsea but he wouldn't be a regular starter.

That is the view of former Stamford Bridge star Glen Johnson, who believes the Hoops right-back has shown all the credentials to be a hit under Graham Potter's men but not at the expense of a starting place over Reece James. The Croatian, who still has a lengthy deal at Parkhead, has been linked with big-money moves away from Glasgow in the form of Barcelona and Atletico Madrid chasing his signature.

Reports also suggested that two clubs from England's top flight were also in the race, with previous links to Manchester United and Leicester City sprouting up for the 27-year-old. Juranovic's sizzling World Cup showings have not gone unnoticed with contract talks in Glasgow reportedly stalling and the Hoops now willing to listen to offers.

READ MORE: Josip Juranovic Celtic to Barcelona transfer link in focus as Carl Starfelt labels him 'really good'

Former England cap Johnson, however, admits there would be no eye-catching fee for the defender from Parkhead and says an understudy role would be Juranovic's likely fate in London. He told Midnite : "Josip Juranovic looks very quick and very efficient going forward. He had a great tournament for Croatia and has performed well at Celtic.

"Reece James' injury is not that bad for Juranovic to replace him. Juranovic would be a great backup to Reece James, and coming from Celtic, he won't be a £80 million player, it will be a simple deal. But I can't see him replacing James."

READ NEXT:

- Josip Juranovic taunts Rangers as Celtic star revels in league points gap after World Cup medal success

- James Forrest incredible Celtic record as veteran joins two Hoops icons in exclusive club after Aberdeen assist

- Celtic and Rangers Scottish Cup TV information revealed as holders handed Saturday night slot

- Yuki Kobayashi reveals Phil Foden tough test that sparked Celtic move trajectory as he recalls sliding doors moment

- Celtic vs Livingston gets pay-per-view treatment as supporters handed Parkhead live stream boost

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100’s of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.