Celtic are preparing to open contract discussions with Anthony Ralston as the club looks to secure the defender’s long-term future at Parkhead.
Ralston has emerged as a more central figure in Martin O’Neill’s plans than many had anticipated at the start of the season, with his importance growing significantly in recent weeks.
The 27-year-old was previously considered fourth in the right-back pecking order, but his status has shifted dramatically as injury and availability issues have affected those ahead of him.
Julian Araujo, who had impressed during the early stages of his loan spell from Bournemouth, has been sidelined for over a month and appears unlikely to remain at the club beyond the summer.
With Araujo unavailable, Ralston has taken his opportunity, cementing his position as O’Neill’s first-choice right-back at a crucial stage of the campaign.
Sources had previously told Football Insider that Celtic were willing to sell Ralston this summer, but the situation has changed considerably given the club’s current right-back struggles.
Ralston is approaching the final year of his contract at Parkhead, making the timing of these talks particularly important for both parties as the season reaches its defining stages.
A product of Celtic’s youth academy, Ralston has enjoyed a trophy-laden career with his boyhood club, contributing to eight Premiership titles, four Scottish Cups and four League Cups.
The Scotland international also earned recognition on the international stage, earning a place in Steve Clarke’s World Cup squad and making his tournament debut as a second-half substitute during Scotland’s 1-0 defeat to Morocco.
Offering Ralston an extension would cause little financial strain for Celtic, and keeping an experienced, academy-trained player familiar with the club’s culture makes considerable sense.
The coming weeks of the season could prove defining for Celtic over several years, and Ralston now looks set to play a key role in those vital fixtures.
In further contract news, Celtic have confirmed that Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain will remain at the club after agreeing a fresh one-year deal, having initially joined on a short-term contract in February.
