Motherwell Insider Hints at Elijah Just Celtic Transfer

While Elijah Just is making a name for himself on the international stage, one former player with Motherwell connections has hinted at Celtic making a move.

The New Zealand international grabbed two goals on his World Cup debut as his side earned a 2-2 draw with Iran, a display that caught attention well beyond Scottish football.

Those who watched him week in, week out in the Premiership will have been far less surprised.

Just enjoyed an outstanding first season at Fir Park, scoring seven goals and providing eight assists. His impact earned him nominations for the PFA Scotland Player of the Year award and a place in the league’s Team of the Year.

Former Motherwell midfielder Andy Halliday recently suggested the Lanarkshire club could be set for a significant payday if interest materialises this summer. Based on recent performances, it would be a surprise if it didn’t.

Motherwell’s club-record fee received for a player remains £4.7 million including add-ons, when Lennon Miller moved to Udinese last summer. Though it will likely take at least double that to secure Just’s signature.

Celtic have been linked with the 26-year-old for several months. Reports during the January transfer window suggested the Scottish champions were monitoring the winger, and his stock has only risen since then.

Former Scotland defender Colin Hendry believes Celtic could already be making moves behind the scenes.

Hendry, whose son Callum plays alongside Just at Motherwell, said (Record Sport):

“Just was the one that stuck out for Motherwell, and he played with my son Callum, and I said to Callum, and he said, yeah, Dad, he’s going places.

“And you can see that because, again, on the biggest stage in the world, he’s providing, he’s showing up, and he’s bringing his stuff to the table.

“So I would think, if Celtic are really, really, really interested, I would be making a move. But they may even have opened the negotiations.

“You don’t know these things. But I’d be surprised if he didn’t go up the levels, as he’s improved, and he’s doing what he’s doing ever so well for New Zealand.”

There has been no incoming movement from Celtic in the transfer market since the window opened eight days ago.

The only first-team announcement from the club this week was the departure of coach Gavin Strachan, who has joined West Bromwich Albion.

For now, Just’s focus will be firmly on New Zealand’s attempt to reach the knockout stages. Off the pitch, however, interest will only increase.

If Celtic view him as a genuine target, they may not have the luxury of waiting. Performances on a stage like this tend to attract attention quickly, and clubs with deeper pockets than Motherwell’s usual suitors will already be taking notice.