Celtic eye £2m Motherwell winger after World Cup surge

Celtic are set to table a fee just above £2 million for Motherwell winger Elijah Just, whose contract expires in 12 months and whose World Cup performances have ignited interest. The 26‑year‑old scored New Zealand’s lone goal in a 5‑1 defeat to Belgium and added a brace in a 2‑2 draw with Iran.

Just recorded seven goals and eight assists in 43 matches for Motherwell last season, demonstrating his directness and pace. He can operate on either flank or drop into an attacking midfield role, and he previously found the net against Celtic.

Motherwell scouts have observed his progress at Fir Park, noting a sharp debut season in Scottish football. The World Cup amplified his profile, especially after his two‑goal performance in the 2‑2 draw with Iran.

Agent Gustaf Grauer confirmed that backroom discussions are underway regarding a potential move. He intends to meet Just in person as soon as the player returns home, before entertaining offers from other interested clubs.

Celtic face a pressing need in goal after Kasper Schmeichel retired, leaving a void that manager Martin O’Neill must fill. Reports have linked the club to former German youth international Tjark Ernst, valued at around four million pounds. However, Wolfsburg’s bid for Ernst was accepted by Hertha BSC, complicating the pursuit.

With only a year left on his contract, Motherwell are likely to set a price just above two million pounds, which the market deems a bargain for a player who excelled on the world stage. For Celtic, securing Just could add depth to their flanks, but the priority remains finding a reliable goalkeeper. Overcommitting to a winger while the spine is exposed may prove a costly distraction.