Romano Explains Why January Deal Between Celtic And Manchester United “Collapsed”

Romano Explains Why January Deal Between Celtic And Manchester United “Collapsed”

Manchester United were serious about signing Josip Juranovic before the deal with Celtic “collapsed”, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.

The journalist claims the Croatian international was the Red Devils’ number one target, but they opted to retain the services of Aaron Wan-Bissaka instead:

“They had a right-back in their hands, ready to be signed in case Wan-Bissaka was going to leave. That player was Josip Juranovic. Manchester United had Juranovic top of the list as back-up right-back, behind Diogo Dalot, who is first-choice.”

“Juranovic was a serious option. The United board discussed his name, he was the concrete option, but then after waiting and waiting and waiting they decided to keep Wan-Bissaka and so the Juranovic deal collapsed and he instead decided to accept the bid from Union Berlin.”

Juranovic had been linked with a number of other Premier League clubs during the January transfer window, in addition to United.

The likes of Chelsea, Everton and Southampton were also mentioned as potential suitors but, as Romano mentions, the defender eventually ended up moving to Germany.

Juranovic could hand the Hoops a £10m transfer windfall if he does meet certain conditions during his time at Union Berlin.

It must be said that, from Celtic’s point of view, they haven’t really missed the 27-year-old. Alistair Johnston has fitted in seamlessly since arriving from FC Montreal, although the Canadian has had to play more than anticipated due to the injury sustained by Anthony Ralston.