NafisaThe summer transfer window often has a way of changing direction in a matter of days. A player who appears destined for one destination can suddenly find himself attracting attention from clubs across several leagues, particularly after impressing on the international stage.
That scenario is becoming increasingly common as clubs place greater emphasis on scouting tournaments, with standout performances quickly pushing transfer targets onto the radar of bigger teams.
While Scottish clubs have already been active in strengthening their squads, there are still several names generating serious interest before the new campaign gets underway.
For Rangers, recruitment remains one of the biggest talking points following Derek McInnes’ arrival at Ibrox. The club have already completed a number of important additions, but the search for extra quality in attacking areas is continuing as preparations for the Premiership season gather pace.
Across Glasgow, Celtic are also monitoring several potential reinforcements as they look to defend their domestic crown and remain competitive on multiple fronts. That has created the possibility of another Old Firm transfer battle before the window closes.
One player now finding himself at the centre of that attention is Motherwell winger Elijah Just, whose recent performances have dramatically boosted his reputation beyond Scotland.
Celtic and Rangers are encountering fresh competition in the pursuit of Motherwell wide man Elijah Just this summer, according to sources who spoke to Football Insider.
An outstanding World Cup campaign with New Zealand has significantly increased interest in the 26-year-old from clubs in England as well as elsewhere across Europe.
Sources indicate that the race for the attacker’s signature is now “open,” leaving both Glasgow rivals facing serious competition if they hope to secure his services.
Just has entered the final year of his Motherwell contract, and it is believed a transfer fee considerably below the £5million mark would be enough to complete a deal.
The winger has also recently made it known that he wants to test himself at the highest level possible next season, making an exit from Fir Park appear increasingly probable.
Just enjoyed an impressive Scottish Premiership campaign last term, contributing seven goals and seven assists in league competition.
Elijah Just’s outstanding World Cup
Both Celtic and Rangers have been tracking the New Zealand international for several months, while clubs from the English Championship have also been keeping a close watch on his progress.
Following his impressive World Cup displays, however, the winger now appears to have attracted an even broader range of suitors.
He found the net twice during New Zealand’s entertaining 2-2 draw with Iran in their opening group match before adding another goal despite his side’s 5-1 defeat against Belgium, rounding off an eye-catching individual tournament.
With football’s biggest stage attracting scouts from around the globe, Just succeeded in putting himself firmly in the spotlight.
Motherwell understand it will be extremely difficult to retain one of their standout performers beyond this season, though they remain determined to secure the best possible financial return if he leaves.
Celtic and Rangers also tracking Swedish defender
Football Insider also reported earlier this week that both Old Firm clubs continue to monitor Orgryte IS defender Michael Parker.
The 21-year-old only arrived at the Swedish side from West Brom five months ago, but he has already built an impressive reputation with his performances in the Allsvenskan.
His recent displays have attracted scouts from both Rangers and Celtic, with each club considering a possible move before the transfer deadline.
Parker is capable of operating at left-back as well as in central defence, while Belgian outfit Anderlecht and Italian side Udinese are also believed to be monitoring his situation closely.
Nafisa
