Celtic backed to accelerate Elijah Just bid after World Cup heroics with New Zealand
Celtic are planning to accelerate their interest in signing Motherwell star Elijah Just after his performance at the World Cup.
The 26-year-old scored twice as the tournament's lowest-ranked team, New Zealand, secured a point in their opening game with a 2-2 draw against Iran in Los Angeles.
His performances for Motherwell in the last 12 months had inspired high-profile interest in his signature, and more clubs are now expected to join the race.
As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider's Transfer Insider podcast, Celtic are strong admirers of Just and are now prepareing to step up their interest.
The Hoops were impressed by the midfielder's performances in the Scottish Premiership and believe he could make a difference to their side next season.
Following the appointment of Martin O'Neill, they are now preparing to ramp up their transfer plans, and Just features high on their list of targets.
Could Celtic make a move to sign Elijah Just?
Football Insider revealed in March that Celtic are interested in signing Just and have been keeping tabs on him, although they will face competition from Rangers.
Both Scottish giants have been put on alert by the New Zealander's performances in the Scottish Premiership as they hope to sign proven talents this summer.
There is now a feeling that the clubs are prepared to step up their interest after seeing his performance for his country on the biggest stage.
As I revealed on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: "He's really announced himself on the global stage with those two goals for New Zealand against Iran in their first game at the World Cup.
"Celtic and Rangers were both looking at Elijah Just this season as he was one of the standout players in the SPFL with Motherwell, who were a bit of a surprise last season.
"Celtic haven't done any business yet and I'm sure Martin O’Neill will be keen to strengthen that squad as soon as possible.
"Just is a player that could step into that Celtic side, he's proven himself in the Scottish Premiership as well so he wouldn't take much time to settle in or adapt."
Which other clubs are interested in signing Just?
As a result of his impressive performances at the World Cup, Celtic are no longer alone in their pursuit of Just, and could face competition from rival clubs across Europe.
Rangers have also been long-term admirers, but now clubs in the English Championship are believed to be keeping a close eye on the midfielder.
Football Insider reported on 16 June that Just could be the "perfect" signing for Southampton, with the Saints looking to bolster their squad ahead of next season.
He picked up seven goals and seven assists in 43 games last season as Motherwell finished fourth, while also claiming Europa Conference League football.
Tonda Eckert is determined to stregnthen his Southampton squad after missing out on promotion due to the spygate scandal, and Just has emerged as a key target.