Celtic may have already initiated transfer negotiations with Motherwell for winger Elijah Just, according to former Scotland international Colin Hendry. Hendry went public with the intel after his son Callum, a former teammate of Just at Fir Park, provided the inside information.
Just's Stellar Season and World Cup Heroics
The 26-year-old attacker was a standout performer for Motherwell last season, scoring seven goals and providing eight assists to help the club finish fourth in the Scottish Premiership and secure European football. At the 2026 World Cup, Just made history for New Zealand by becoming the first Kiwi to score a brace in a World Cup match, netting twice in a 2-2 draw with Iran.
With global attention on Just as he aims to lead New Zealand to the knockout stages, Hendry believes Celtic may have already made a move. Speaking to Best Betting Sites, Hendry said: "Just was the one that stuck out for Motherwell, and he played with my son Callum, and I said to Callum, and he said, yeah, Dad, he's going places. And you can see that because, again, on the biggest stage in the world, he's providing, he's showing up, and he's bringing his stuff to the table."
Hendry's Advice and Potential Negotiations
Hendry added: "So I would think, if Celtic are really, really, really interested, I would be making a move. But they may even have opened the negotiations. You don't know these things. But I'd be surprised if he didn't go up the levels, as he's improved, and he's doing what he's doing ever so well for New Zealand."
Just Reflects on World Cup Experience
Speaking at the tournament, Just described the whirlwind experience: "It's been really incredible. It's hard to put into words. My phone's been blowing up, a lot of people congratulating me. It's been really nice. It's been really special. All of the lads have been getting messages from people back home, just saying how proud they are."
Reflecting on his inspiration, Just said: "When I was 10 years old watching the previous group at the World Cup, I know how inspired I was. So hopefully there's a few guys out there feeling pretty special."
