Newcastle transfer news: Toon linked with signing Josip Juranovic from Celtic

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Newcastle United are interested in signing a right-back next month, and they have now been linked with Celtic defender Josip Juranovic.

The rumour comes from the Sunday Post (back page, 11/12/2022), who claim that the Magpies are one of three Premier League sides hoping to sign the Hoops star. The other two teams that are mentioned are Manchester United and Chelsea.

They claim that all three clubs are keen on the 27-year-old, and could firm up their interest with a bid for him in January.

Juranovic only joined Celtic in 2021, but has seriously impressed north of the border after his £2.5million move.

Now he is catching the world’s attention, having established himself as a Croatia regular and helping his nation reach the semi final of the World Cup.

Juranovic broke Bruno’s heart on Saturday

Juranovic has been an ever-present for Croatia in Qatar, playing every minute of all five games so far. That includes the penalty shootout victories over Japan and Brazil, with Zlatko Dalic’s side enduring extra time twice already this tournament.

Their win over Brazil on Saturday was a huge shock, knocking out the tournament favourites on penalties. There were plenty of Brazilian tears, with Neymar’s World Cup dream over once again.

Newcastle United’s Bruno Guimaraes was also seen crying. He was an unused substitute once again, meaning his World Cup ended with just two appearances off the bench.

It was not a tournament to remember from Bruno, and a Newcastle move for Juranovic could serve as a quick reminder of his Qatar pain.

Newcastle linked with much younger right-backs

But while Newcastle have been linked with the Celtic ace, he is one of many right-backs being targeted by the Magpies.

Eddie Howe is keen to bring in a new backup for Kieran Trippier. He is Newcastle’s undisputed first choice. But at 32, it is wise that Howe starts planning for the future.

That is why rumours regarding Harrison Ashby and Cody Drameh made sense. They are both 21-years-old, and have their best years ahead of them.

But Juranovic is 27. He is in his peak now, and has excelled for both Celtic and Croatia. His next move is going to be a big one where he will be first choice, but that wouldn’t be the case at Newcastle.

While he is a great defender, his age makes a move to St James’ Park unlikely.