Araujo Celtic return shot down, but an offer for AJ will see door open

Araujo Celtic return shot down, but an offer for AJ will see door openJulian Araujo return to Celtic being shot down, but any offer for Alistair Johnston will see the door quickly reopen…A permanent return for Julian Araujo has been shot down, but it’s not something that we should completely rule out. The Californian born full back was a huge hit with the Celtic supporters after signing a short term loan deal at the start of the year.

>Araujo who was out of favour at Bournemouth, quickly adapted to the Scottish game, and was one of positives at the club last season, only for injury to cut short his successful spell in the East End of Glasgow.

>His battling qualities, as well as a last gasp winner against Kilmarnock at Rugby Park, which proved so vital at the end of the season endeared him in the hearts of the Celtic supporters.

>The 16 times capped Mexican International is still contracted to the south coast Premier League club until the summer of 2029, and the cherries will want to claw back some cash after splashing out £8.5 million for the full back in August 2024.

>Celtic also have the fully fit Alistair Johnston, Tony Ralston, and Colby Donovan covering the right back berth, so the club will be unwilling to sanction such a huge fee on a player who occupies a spot that is well covered.

>Araujo is also on a reported massive £50,000 a week salary, which could be a huge obstacle in any proposed deal, but the hoops might change their mind if circumstances where to change regarding current number one right back Alistair Johnston.

>AJ impressed as Canada reached the last 16 of the World Cup, and will have in no doubt caught the eye of more than a few admirers with his powerful performances and outstanding athleticism and leadership.

>No one wants to contemplate AJ leaving Celtic, but if a big enough bid is made, then we all know how that inevitably ends.

>Then, and only then will a move for Julian Araujo even be considered, meaning we can’t officially rule it out, IF the player himself is willing to take a slightly smaller remuneration which would still see him near the top end of Scottish football’s top earners.

Alistair Johnston of Canada controls the ball against Breel Embolo of Switzerland during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group B match between Switzerland and Canada at BC Place Vancouver on June 24, 2026 in Vancouver, British Columbia. (Photo by Emilee Chinn/Getty Images)

>It’s no surprise that Araujo has been linked with a move back to Celtic. What is surprising is that there has been no transfer rumours surrounding Alistair Johnston so far. If that remains the case Celtic supporters will be happy to settle for the status quo at right back.

>Just an Ordinary Bhoy

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