Celtic dream 2026/27 XI as Elijah Just signs and fan favourite returns | Football | Sport
Martin O’Neill will be looking to bolster his squad this summer (Image: Getty)
Celtic head into the summer after securing a domestic double in Scotland, although supporters remain eager to see further strengthening during the transfer window. Martin O’Neill made a second mid-campaign return to guide the Hoops to both the Scottish Premiership crown and the Scottish Cup, capping off a season packed with twists and turns.
The 2025/26 campaign proved nerve-racking for fans, with Heart of Midlothian sitting atop the title race until the closing stages of the final match at Celtic Park. Strikes from Daizen Maeda and Callum Osmand delivered the Bhoys’ 56th league championship while crushing Hearts’ hopes in dramatic fashion. Attention has now turned fully towards summer recruitment following O’Neill’s appointment as permanent manager. Here, Express Sport has taken a closer look at what an ideal transfer window might involve for Celtic and how the team could line up next season.
Elijah Just signs
Celtic have reportedly been monitoring Motherwell’s Elijah Just for an extended period after the New Zealander impressed during his first campaign in Scottish football. Operating mainly in an advanced midfield role, he registered 15 goal involvements for the Well and recently enhanced his reputation on the international stage at the World Cup.
Just netted twice in New Zealand’s tournament opener against Iran, helping his country earn a 2-2 draw and claim their first point of the competition. While the performance has further raised his profile, it is also expected to increase interest from potential suitors.
As a result, Celtic may face stiff competition in the race for his signature, including interest from city rivals Rangers. Currently valued at around £2million, the attacker could command a substantial transfer fee, potentially surpassing Motherwell’s previous record sale.
Just’s value has just sky-rocketed (Image: Harry How/Getty Images)
Kelechi Iheanacho stays
Reports indicate that Kelechi Iheanacho is eager to extend his spell with Celtic after playing a pivotal role in the dramatic title run-in. The experienced forward proved instrumental in several key moments, often making the difference with late goals.
The 29-year-old is believed to want to remain in Glasgow, although O’Neill is expected to make a final decision later in June amid ongoing concerns regarding his fitness levels. Despite starting only four league matches last season, the Nigerian made a huge impact when introduced from the bench.
Having initially arrived on a free transfer, Iheanacho could potentially finish his playing career at Celtic if the club opts to offer him another contract extension.
Iheanacho’s fitness is his only stumbling block (Image: Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
£6million forward added
Supporters have frequently called on the Celtic hierarchy to invest heavily in high-profile talent. Borussia Dortmund winger Cole Campbell could fit that description perfectly, having already recorded 45 goal contributions despite being only 20 years old.
Recent reports from Sky Germany suggest discussions are taking place over a possible move to Celtic. However, Dortmund are unlikely to part with the youngster cheaply, with a reported valuation of £6million attached to him.
According to reports, Campbell’s loan spell at Hoffenheim contained a £6.8m purchase clause along with a possible buy-back option for Dortmund. Hoffenheim ultimately declined to activate the agreement, resulting in the player returning to the Bundesliga giants.
Given that Celtic have previously spent significant sums, including the £11m invested in Arne Engels, a move of this scale would not be entirely out of character if the club views Campbell as a priority target.
Cole Campbell may be the pricier option for the Hoops (Image: Ulrik Pedersen/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Popular defender returns
Another move likely to be welcomed by supporters would be the permanent return of Marcelo Saracchi. The defender spent last season on loan in Glasgow and became a fan favourite thanks to his attacking intent and combative style of defending.
Saracchi played an important role in the title-deciding clash with Hearts, supplying the pass to Osmand before the move that led to Maeda’s crucial second goal. Many observers felt he transformed the match after being introduced following the interval. Reports suggest the 28-year-old is open to returning and is awaiting formal negotiations between Celtic and Boca Juniors.
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Marcelo Saracchi’s return seems like an open goal for Celtic (Image: Harry Langer/DeFodi Images/DeFodi via Getty Images)
A transfer fee of under £2m could be enough to secure his services, potentially allowing him to form an effective partnership on the left flank with club legend Kieran Tierney. However, Saracchi is not expected to delay his future indefinitely and may explore alternative options if Celtic fail to act.
Celtic’s dream starting XI for next season
Sinisalo; Johnston, Carter-Vickers, Trusty, Saracchi; McGregor, Engels, Just; Yang, Iheanacho, Campbell (4-3-3)
