Celtic manager Ange Postecoglou ‘would prefer to keep’ defender Josip Juranovic at the club this summer, according to journalist Pete O’Rourke.

The 26-year-old has been linked with a move away from Parkhead after enjoying an outstanding maiden campaign with the Hoops with several clubs believed to be monitoring his situation.

What is the latest news involving Juranovic?

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has recently revealed that Juranovic is ‘expected to leave’ Celtic over the coming months and is ‘attracting interest’ from the Premier League.

Sky Sports reporter Lyall Thomas then claimed that Spanish giants Atletico Madrid are interested in the versatile full-back, meaning it could be a hotly contested tussle for his signature.

And The Times have since provided an update on Juranovic’s situation, claiming Celtic have placed a £15 million price tag on their prized asset.

If any potential suitor stumps up that fee for the Croatia international, then it would see the Glasgow giants earn a healthy profit on a player they paid just £2.5m for less than 12 months ago.

Juranovic’s representatives have reportedly informed the Celtic hierarchy that their client is happy to remain at the club, but it remains to be seen if an offer too good to turn down arrives.

What has O’Rourke said about Juranovic?

O’Rourke believes Juranovic showcased his quality for Celtic last season and that Postecoglou will be keen to retain his services with Champions League football returning next term.

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He told GiveMeSport: “Juranovic has proved himself to be a good signing for Celtic since joining the club last summer. He's played at right-back and left-back and has performed well for Postecoglou’s side.

“So, I'm sure Postecoglou would prefer to keep him at Celtic Park, especially as they prepare to be back in the Champions League next season.”

How big a loss would Juranovic be?

Juranovic quickly established himself as one of the standout full-backs in Scottish football following his arrival from Legia Warsaw last August, racking up seven goal contributions in 35 appearances.

As per WhoScored, the 5 foot 8 ace averaged 1.4 tackles, 0.8 interceptions, 1.5 clearances and 1.2 crosses per league game throughout 2021/22, placing him in the top five for each metric amongst his teammates.

Postecoglou will surely, therefore, be hoping he can call upon Juranovic’s services when next season gets underway, yet a big-money bid may be impossible for Celtic to turn down.