Manchester United could challenge Chelsea for the signature of Celtic defender Josip Juranovic following the intervention of Steve McLaren, according to Dean Jones.

The journalist claims that the Red Devils’ assistant manager has recommended the Croatian international as the Manchester club look to strengthen their options at the back:

“Interestingly, I’m told that he’s playing a part in this guy. He’s recommended him and it feels like he’s a player that would fit in well, so I do think there’s reason to take that rumour seriously.”

Reports in the English media have suggested that Celtic may be willing to sell Juranovic this summer if they receive an offer in the region of £15m, but that figure hasn’t been substantiated by sources north of the border.

The 26-year-old joined the Hoops from Legia Warsaw for only £2.5m twelve months ago, so the Scottish champions could make a sixfold profit on the player if the likes of United or Chelsea do make an approach before the transfer window closes.

Celtic manager Ange Postecoglou would be reluctant to lose Juranovic, who had a very strong first season filling in both at right-back and left-back.