Mourinho interested in Celtic's World Cup star

Josip Juranovic in action for Croatia

TRANSFERS Mourinho interested in Celtic's World Cup star

Faruq Ibrahim 11:22 - 12.01.2023

Jose Mourinho's AS Roma have shown an interest in Celtic's right-back Josip Juranovic.

Roma have reportedly set their sights on Celtic's Josip Juranovic for a move during the January transfer window.

The 27-year-old full-back, who was particularly impressive at the World Cup for Croatia, has seen his stock rise and interest in him increase around Europe. Juranovic started all but one of Croatia's seven games as they finished in third place in Qatar.

Jose Mourinho's Roma have been reported as one of these interested parties, with full-back Rick Karsdorp linked with a move away to Monza.

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Mourinho wants Juranovic

The Italian publication Gazzetta Dello Sport reports that Mourinho is looking for a new right-back.

Ibrox Stadium Glasgow, Scotland, January 2nd 2023: Josip Juranovic of Celtic shouts to Celtic support during the Cinch Scottish Premiership match between Rangers FC and Celtic FC
Ibrox Stadium Glasgow, Scotland, January 2nd 2023: Josip Juranovic of Celtic shouts to Celtic support during the Cinch Scottish Premiership match between Rangers FC and Celtic FC Ibrox Stadium Glasgow, Scotland, January 2nd 2023: Josip Juranovic of Celtic shouts to Celtic support during the Cinch Scottish Premiership match between Rangers FC and Celtic FC

The club have Juranovic and Rennes' Hamari Traore as possible replacements; however, Juranovic's reported £7 million price tag is lower than the over £8 million Rennes are asking for Hamari.

Hamari Traore in action for Rennes
Hamari Traore in action for Rennes

Juranovic is the number one option regardless; being the cheaper option only makes him more attractive.

Why Juranovic is on his way out in January 

The 27-year-old Croatian was a stalwart in Croatia's defence at the World Cup, and is attracting interest from all over Europe.

Doha, Qatar. 13th Dec, 2022. Josip Juranovic (Kroatien), Lionel Messi (Arg) Argentina - Croatia
Doha, Qatar. 13th Dec, 2022. Josip Juranovic (Kroatien), Lionel Messi (Arg) Argentina - Croatia

Juranovic has had many look-ins on him from top clubs in Europe, including Barcelona, Manchester United, and Chelsea, per the Daily Record.

The versatile full-back, capable of playing on either side, has found it difficult to reclaim his spot as first-choice right-back after his return from the World Cup, as manager Ange Postecoglou has preferred Canada's Alistair Johnson in the games since. 

Postecoglou could be preparing for life without Juranovic, who is more out than in at this point in the transfer window.

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