Josip Juranovic is not expected to be short of suitors in January. The right-back has only boosted his reputation through a series of impressive World Cup displays for Croatia.

The 27-year-old had already earned interest across Europe with his Celtic performances since signing for the club last summer on a deal until 2026.

However, his World Cup showing - and major praise for his play on the big stage - are expected to lead to serious transfer interest next month.

And Chris Sutton reckons Juranovic warrants the transfer attention - but Celtic also deserve to receive a bumper fee if they're to sell in January.

 “Juranovic’s performance against Brazil was seen across the world. Why shouldn’t Celtic be able to ask for big money?," said Sutton in an interview with the Daily Record.

“I believe they should try to keep him until next summer as he’s such an important player and Celtic have a title to be secure. But, if circumstances dictate that he is to go next month, it should be for a premium rate.

“Of course, the two biggest aspects are maybe the fact he is playing in Scotland and the fact he is 27 years of age.

“I’m not comparing them as players, but Kieran Tierney, a full-back, left Celtic to join Arsenal for £25m. Yes, Kieran was younger, but Juranovic is now going to have a World Cup semi-final on his CV. He and Croatia might even win the tournament."

Ange Postecoglou appears to already have a ready-made Juranovic replacement in Canada star Alistair Johnston at Parkhead.

The former Montreal defender agreed a five-year deal of his own after impressing at the World Cup - and he could slot into any gap left by a possible Juranovic departure.

But, Sutton insists Celtic do not need to sell Juranovic and floated the idea of holding onto Juranovic until the summer when they could receive a lower fee - but also could have retained the title by then.

Sutton added: “Juranovic is a first-pick for a country who are consistently high performers at major tournaments and in major competitions.

“Given the position of it being mid-season, given the fact Juranovic will just have come off a starring role at a World Cup and given the fact Celtic do not need to sell, they should aim high.

“Ange Postecoglou says there will be movement in and out of the door to generate money to buy better. Right now, Juranovic can generate plenty. If it means they take less in the summer and a second straight title is in the bag, then that’s a fair trade-off.”

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