(Credit: Imago)

Evan Shaw

Mon 30 March 2026 11:00, UK

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Celtic target Elijah Just has just enhanced his reputation even further as he scored for New Zealand in their 4-1 win over Chile on Monday.

The All Whites have been stepping up their preparations ahead of their first World Cup since 2010 this summer, and they dismantled their South American opponents at Eden Park.

Just netted the second goal for his country just before the half-time interval, as he took his tally of international goals to nine.

The Motherwell winger has already emerged as a transfer target for both Celtic and Rangers ahead of the upcoming transfer window, and he underlined his impressive campaign even further by chipping in for his country.

Celtic’s transfer plans are set to see them try and overhaul their squad ahead of next season, and if they want Just to be part of that, then they must surely be prepared to launch an immediate move once the window opens.

Elijah Just boosts his reputation again

Football Insider revealed last week that Celtic and Rangers face competition from several English clubs in the race to sign Just this summer, which provides a serious sense of urgency to the Bhoys’ pursuit this summer.

Losing out on targets to clubs in the English pyramid has been a common occurrence for the Old Firm duo in recent years, and they will be desperate to ensure that the same scenario doesn’t play out with Just.

The 25-year-old has been one of the Scottish Premiership’s breakout stars in 2025-26, as he has flourished with seven league goals and six assists for Jens Berthel Askou’s side.

Motherwell have received plenty of plaudits for their expansive style of play, but Just has been one of several attacking talents who have taken the Well to the next level.

There is already a genuine race developing to secure the wideman’s signature this summer, and that will surely only grow now that he is also performing in the spotlight for New Zealand.

Just’s goal against Chile will undoubtedly make even more clubs sit up and take notice of him, and if Celtic are to have any chance of landing him this summer, then the speed of their business will hold the key.

Motherwell prepared to sell Just to Celtic

Football Insider revealed earlier in March that Motherwell are prepared to sell Just to either Celtic or Rangers this summer, due to the financial hierarchy of the Premiership.

The pair of Glasgow giants rule the roost when it comes to transfers in Scottish football, as they are regularly able to pick off the most promising talents from elsewhere in the top division.

That looks set to be the case once again with Just, as sources say that Motherwell will reluctantly accept any big-money offers that come in for him ahead of next term.

Berthel Askou’s side are in no position to be able to fend off the interest in their star man this summer, it will instead be a case of them trying to profit as much as possible.