This Celtic Star Is Tipped To Leave In January: Should The Hoops Sell Him?

This Celtic Star Is Tipped To Leave In January: Should The Hoops Sell Him? Celtic’s right-back hierarchy has changed this season, with Martin O’Neill relying on academy graduate Colby Donovan as injuries disrupt Alistair Johnston’s campaign. The shift has given the 20-year-old a bigger role in a side balancing Premiership ambitions with European demands. Donovan has featured in all 17 competitive matches, starting 15. Johnston remains first choice when available, but his latest setback against Hibernian has increased pressure on Celtic ’s other full-backs. The club also brought in Jordan Lotomba from Feyenoord on a short-term deal, giving O’Neill another option. Donovan has now earned a five-year contract reportedly running until 2031. The deal signals Celtic ’s confidence in his development and gives the coaching staff a clear plan for the position. As the youngster’s status rises, Ralston’s place in the pecking order has become increasingly uncertain. The Scotland international has made three substitute appearances this season, totalling 47 minutes against LASK and Ferencváros in Europe, and has yet to feature domestically. His contract expires next summer, leaving Celtic with a decision before he can leave for nothing. According to The Scottish Sun , former Celtic defender Charlie Mulgrew expects Ralston to leave in January or next summer. Speaking on Go Radio, Mulgrew praised Donovan’s rise from third choice and said the new deal could push Ralston out of the door. The 27-year-old made 35 appearances last season, making his loss of status stark. “He has earned it. He has shown a great desire to be a Celtic player. He was third choice right-back at one point, and now he has stepped up from nowhere. He’ll now be getting wages that he deserves. I would imagine that Ralston will move on either in January or in the summer window based on that. But fair play to Donovan. He has a long way to go in terms of learning and understanding the game, but he’ll get there.” Should Celtic sell Ralston in January or keep him as cover? LINZ, AUSTRIA – AUGUST 25: Anthony Ralston of Celtic reacts after the UEFA Champions League 2026/27 Play off round second leg match between LASK and Celtic at on August 25, 2026 in Linz, Austria. (Photo by Christian Bruna/Getty Images) Celtic should consider a January exit, but only if O’Neill trusts Lotomba to cover Johnston’s absence. Ralston has served his boyhood club well, yet 47 minutes by late October offers little prospect of a meaningful role. A fee would be preferable to losing him for free in June, while a move could restore his regular playing time. Still, Johnston’s injury record makes depth essential. A dependable alternative must be ready to defend the right flank when the Canadian misses games, particularly during a demanding run of domestic and European fixtures. If Lotomba cannot provide reliable cover, Celtic should keep Ralston until summer rather than leave Donovan carrying the burden alone. The decision should depend on the cover available and any fee on offer, not sentiment or contract timing.