Celtic’s 26-Year-Old Summer Target Explodes After World Cup: Should The Hoops Press For Him? | OneFootball

The World Cup changes everything. One minute you’re an intriguing SPFL talent, the next your agent’s phone is melting. That is the reality facing Motherwell’s Elijah Just.

Celtic summer targets exploded after dramatic World Cup exploits

According to the Daily Record, representative Gustaf Grauer has confirmed significant backroom chatter regarding the New Zealand winger. Parkhead scouts have been quietly monitoring his progress at Fir Park for a while now. His debut season in Scotland was sharp. But North America in 2026? That just put him on the map.

New Zealand didn’t survive the group stage. They got battered 5-1 by Belgium, though Just managed to score their lone consolation goal. It was his performance during the tense 2-2 draw with Iran that attracted attention, where he bagged a brilliant brace. Now, clubs are interested. Grauer plans to hold face-to-face showdown talks with the winger the second he lands home before taking calls from prospective buyers.

A bargain buy or a luxury distraction?

VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA – JUNE 26: Elijah Just #11 of New Zealand warms up before the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group G match between New Zealand and Belgium at BC Place Vancouver on June 26, 2026 in Vancouver, British Columbia. (Photo by Alex Grimm/Getty Images)

Seven goals and eight assists across 43 appearances last term. Those are the numbers Just clocked for Motherwell. He can play either flank or push into the pocket as an attacking midfielder. He is direct, fast, and he actually scored against the Hoops last season. The 26-year-old offers proven domestic quality.

With only 12 months left on his contract, Motherwell will likely demand a fee slightly north of two million pounds. In today’s market, that is an absolute steal for a bloke who just shone on the grandest international stage. But Celtic have a massive problem elsewhere.

Kasper Schmeichel has hung up his gloves. Retired. Martin O’Neill has a gaping, terrifying void between the posts. Reports have linked the hierarchy to a four-million-pound-rated former German youth international, Tjark Ernst. The problem? Wolfsburg have just had a bid accepted by Hertha BSC for him.

The recruitment team must pivot immediately. Chasing wingers while the No.1 jersey sits empty is bad management. Stockpiling wide attackers is fun for the fans, but fixing the spine comes first. Secure the goalkeeper. Don’t get dragged into an unnecessary bidding war for Just when the backline is exposed.