Celtic facing competition for Julian Araujo summer signing | OneFootball

Celtic could face a battle to keep hold of Julian Araujo beyond this season, with Mexican giants Cruz Azul reportedly preparing a summer approach for the defender…

The right-back – who joined the Glasgow club on loan from Bournemouth in January – has quickly become a fans favourite after impressing with a string of eye-catching performances.

Araujo’s loan switch to Celtic does NOT contain an option-to-buy clause, meaning he is scheduled to return to his parent club once the campaign concludes.

Reports in Mexico suggest Cruz Azul are keen to bring the Hoops defender back to his homeland and are considering a move if they can strike a deal with Bournemouth, where Araujo remains under contract for another three years.

The Mexico City side are in the market for a new right-back after selling Jorge Sanchez to Greek club PAOK, with Araujo emerging as a leading player to replace him.

Celtic celebrations after Tomas Cvancara scores the penalty that takes Celtic into the semi-finals. Scottish Cup quarter final on Sunday 8 March 2026. Photograph by Vagelis Georgariou

Since arriving at Celtic, the Mexico international has become an important figure in Martin O’Neill’s squad, making 13 appearances since his debut in the Glasgow Derby clash at the beginning of January.

Meanwhile, John Beaton has been confirmed as referee for Celtic’s upcoming Premiership encounter with Motherwell tomorrow afternoon.

Martin O’Neill’s Celtic team head into the match buoyed by their dramatic Scottish Cup triumph over the Rangers at Ibrox on Sunday.

Tomas Cvancara scores the penalty that takes Celtic into the semi-finals. Scottish Cup quarter final on Sunday 8 March 2026. Photograph by Vagelis Georgariou

After 120 minutes failed to separate the sides following a goalless stalemate, the tie was settled on penalties, with Tomas Cvancara converting the decisive kick.

Having secured a place in the semi-finals, Celtic now switch focus back to the Scottish Premiership title race.

They welcome Motherwell to Celtic Park this weekend, with Jens Berthel Askou’s side currently fourth in the table despite suffering a 2-1 loss to Dundee last weekend.

Beaton will oversee proceedings, assisted by linesmen Graeme Stewart and Calum Spence, while Kevin Clancy will operate VAR alongside Gary Hilland.

Martin O’Neill at Ibrox. Scottish Cup quarter final on Sunday 8 March 2026. Photograph by Vagelis Georgariou

Victory for Celtic would move Martin O’Neill’s side  to within two points of Hearts ahead of the Jambos evening trip to face Kilmarnock at Rugby Park. Then the Rangers will play on Sunday away to St Mirren knowing what their two rivals have done the previous day.

Conor Spence

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