Atletico Madrid are closing in on Nahuel Molina from Udinese, which means that the Spanish side are unlikely to raid Celtic for Josip Juranovic. According to Italian journalist and transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano, a deal appears to be nearing for the right-back to join the La Liga outfit.
Romano himself had said that Diego Simone’s side were interested in the Croatian Internationalist. However, he has updated to say that the Argentine full-back will become Atleti’s second signing of the window.
Atletico Madrid are closing on Nahuel Molina deal. Talks at final stages with Udinese, as per @DiMarzio – Nehuen Pérez will be included as part of the deal. 🚨⚪️🔴 #Atleti
Molina will become Atleti’s second signing after Axel Witsel. pic.twitter.com/m7Zj0GnT2r
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 14, 2022
Juranovic had been linked but Celtic’s stance was very clear. It would need to take an exceptional offer to even tempt them to consider it, given the player has four years remaining on his deal with The Scottish Champions. The whispers and murmurs of a move calmed down and now it looks as if they have their man.
Yesterday, Juranovic was quoted talking to Croatian media outlet RTLsuggesting that he was keen for there to be interest but that he didn’t care about it as he was only focused on Celtic.
“I hope there was something in the stories, but honestly I didn’t even ask our manager or anything about it. I didn’t care. I have to keep my feet firmly on the ground. It was Atletico Madrid after all, but I’m at a big club already, Celtic.”
The comments could be construed in a way that is reassuring for Celtic fans as the player wants to be recognised for his fine performances with the club but that is a double-edged sword as he will inevitably attract teams looking to sign him. It looks as if it won’t be Atletico Madrid but they are unlikely to be the last team linked with Juranovic.
Celtic are strong in the right side of defence with Juranovic and Tony Ralston an excellent understudy. The manager will hope that he can keep the core of this exciting squad together for the new season before the interest eventually manifests itself in bids.
