Chris Sutton believes Celtic may already have missed their chance to land Elijah Just on the cheap.
The Motherwell star enhanced his growing reputation on the world stage overnight with a superb performance for New Zealand in their World Cup clash against Iran.
Just twice put his country in front during a thrilling 2-2 draw, scoring the opening goal before restoring New Zealand’s lead after Iran had equalised.
It was another reminder of the quality he has shown throughout an outstanding season in the Premiership.
The 26-year-old has been one of Motherwell’s standout performers and has repeatedly been linked with a move away from Fir Park.
Celtic are among the clubs credited with an interest, with scouts having watched the New Zealand international on several occasions throughout the campaign.
Now Sutton fears the Parkhead club may have waited too long.
Taking to Twitter after the match, the former Celtic striker posted:
“Celtic should’ve snapped Elijah Just up before now… now it could really cost them… tremendous performance from him.”
It’s not the first time Sutton has championed a move for the attacker.
The pundit has previously argued Celtic would be foolish not to seriously consider signing a player who has already proven himself in Scottish football and continues to improve.
And every strong World Cup performance only increases the likelihood of further interest emerging.
That is exactly the scenario Celtic will have wanted to avoid.
Recruiting players before major international tournaments can often represent good business. Waiting until after a player shines on the biggest stage usually comes with a financial penalty.
Just’s display against Iran certainly won’t have gone unnoticed.
Whether Celtic decide to turn their interest into something more concrete remains to be seen.
Martin O’Neill is expected to strengthen in attacking areas this summer, particularly with uncertainty surrounding the futures of Daizen Maeda and several other forwards.
If Just is among the targets, Sutton’s warning may prove accurate.
Because every goal he scores at this World Cup is likely adding another few pounds to his valuation.
The Board will just say he was never a target, which would be right because we don’t appear to have any targets .
Hopefully he will benefit from Celtic’s lack of interest.
Agreed Anthony.
Celtic’s biggest enemies are the Desmonds and the Board.
Who, in their right mind would trust them?