Celtic Receive A Possitive Update For £9M Defender: Should The Bhoys Commit To A Permanent Transfer? | OneFootball

Celtic could secure a permanent transfer for loanee Julian Araujo. AFC Bournemouth are happy to sell him this summer, according to Pete O’Rourke at Football Insider. The player is keen on staying at Celtic Park full-time. He wants to remain in Glasgow once his current loan spell concludes in June. The Bhoys are also very willing to negotiate a deal. They want the Mexican right-back who is clearly loving life in Scotland. The report indicates his parent club will not block a move. They will let him move to Scotland permanently if he chooses.

Celtic eye a permanent deal for Julian Araujo

The Parkhead hierarchy wants fierce competition for Alistair Johnston. They want a strong defensive line for the 2026/27 campaign. Supporters already adore the 24-year-old defender. He represents the Mexican national team with pride. Celtic prepare for a major squad rebuild before next season, and Araujo could be a key part of their long-term defensive strategy. A recent injury concern forced him back to Bournemouth for specialist treatment this March. Despite this, the mood remains overwhelmingly positive. He settled in so quickly after arriving in the January window.

Should the Bhoys commit to a permanent transfer for the Mexican defender?

GLASGOW, SCOTLAND – FEBRUARY 01: Julian Araujo of Celtic arrives prior to the William Hill Premiership match between Celtic and Falkirk at Celtic Park on February 01, 2026 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

Celtic must act decisively to sign Julian Araujo. He offers a dynamic profile that Alistair Johnston currently lacks during his own injury-plagued season. The 24-year-old Mexican international provides elite recovery pace. He also offers aggressive overlapping runs. These traits perfectly suit the high-intensity system in Glasgow. He has already scored once in ten Premiership appearances during the 2025/26 season. He maintains a solid 7.22 average match rating. Araujo’s physical bravery during the recent Old Firm clashes at Ibrox earned his place as a cult hero among the fans.

His defensive positioning occasionally lapses. However, his ability to move the ball forward remains a standout trait. He is the definition of a modern full-back. Bournemouth originally paid £9 million for his services, but they seem prepared to take a loss to let him leave this summer.

Celtic often struggle with depth when Johnston is out. Thus, if they go on to secure a proven international like Araujo, it is a logical upgrade. I believe this deal makes perfect sense for the club if the fee stays reasonable. He has the youth and the talent to provide immediate quality and future resale value.