Celtic want Bournemouth defender Julian Araujo in the winter transfer window | OneFootball

Celtic are plotting a winter transfer loan move for Bournemouth right-back Julian Araujo as Hoops manager Wilfried Nancy looks to bolster his options at the Parkhead club, according to the Scottish Sun.

Celtic are currently without Cameron Carter-Vickers and Alistair Johnston due to long-term injuries, and the Bhoys have identified Araujo in their bid to strengthen at the back for the second half of the campaign.

The Mexican has only made one appearance for Bournemouth this term and is expected to be allowed to leave on loan.

Celtic are strong contenders to land him, and a move could appeal to the former Barcelona defender.

Nancy knows Araujo from his Major League Soccer days as the 24-year-old used to play for LA Galaxy.

He left for Barca in 2023, spending time on loan in La Liga with Las Palmas in 2023-24.

The Celtic target featured 28 times for the Spanish club before moving to the Premier League in a £9 million deal in August 2024.

The 16-time Mexico international played 13 times for the Cherries last term but has found himself out of favour under manager Andoni Iraola.

Araujo will be eager to leave for regular playing opportunities to boost his chances of going to the World Cup with Mexico at the end of the season.

The Hoops are willing to offer him a chance as they believe his style of play is perfect for them.

Araujo is defensively solid and loves to play short passes, and he could be an upgrade on the current options at Celtic given his quality and experience.

The California-born defender scored one goal and claimed five assists in 35 games in his last season in the MLS having weighed in with six assists in 32 MLS appearances in 2021.

He made the MLS All-Star team in 2021 and 2022, and while he has struggled in Europe, a move to Celtic could help revive his career.