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Pete O'Rourke, Transfer Correspondent

Thu 26 March 2026 8:30, UK

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Celtic will consider any loan offers that come in for right-back Colby Donovan ahead of next season, sources have told Football Insider.

The 19-year-old has enjoyed a breakthrough campaign at Celtic Park, and it is understood that he remains very highly-regarded behind the scenes at the club.

However, the Bhoys could be tempted to send the youngster out to get further first-team experience next term, with sources indicating that they could be prepared to sanction a loan exit if they are well-stocked at right-back.

Any potential move is likely to come in the latter stages of the summer, with Donovan first focusing on trying to impress during the pre-season campaign.

Celtic’s transfer plans are likely to include a significant overhaul of the playing squad, but it is expected that the arrival of a new manager will wipe the slate clean for those who remain at the club.

Colby Donovan’s future uncertain amid Alistair Johnston return

Celtic received a major boost recently when Alistair Johnston returned to training alongside his teammates at Lennoxtown, but that could have a big effect on Donovan in the coming months.

The starlet has become a regular feature in the first-team squad throughout 2025-26, despite having only made his senior debut against Livingston on 23 August.

The defender has since made 26 appearances across all competitions and registered four assists, while Martin O’Neill has regularly trusted him to start in Europa League games since the turn of the year.

Most recently, Donovon started in the 2-0 defeat to Dundee United on Sunday, but was substituted off aftr the hour-mark with an apparent injury.

However, with Johnston’s recovery seemingly progressing well and talk of a permanent move for Julian Araujo growing, there could be plenty of competition on the right of the backline next term.

Anthony Ralston has also struggled for regular gametime of late, but could easily find himself back in the fold under the guidance of a new boss in the summer.

Donovan’s long-term future is set to see him become an increasingly important figure at Parkhead, but for now at least, the club hierarchy face a decision as to whether his development is better suited elsewhere next season.

Bournemouth ready to sanction Julian Araujo sale

Football Insider revealed on Tuesday that Bournemouth are happy to sell Araujo this summer, with Celtic keen on the idea of a permanent move for their loan star.

The Glasgow giants are hopeful of being able to strike a permanent deal for the Mexico international, who is also open to the idea of joining, having enjoyed his brief stint in Scotland so far.

Celtic fans have quickly taken to Araujo after several passionate and combative displays, and they could yet be seeing more of him next season, with Bournemouth not prepared to stand in his way if he wants to move on.

The 24-year-old has been with the Cherries since they signed him from Barcelona in the summer of 2024, but that could be about to change if Celtic get their way this time around.