Sources: Motherwell 'resigned' to losing Elijah Just as Celtic and Rangers battle to win race

Motherwell are "resigned" to losing Elijah Just this summer amid interest from Celtic, Rangers and a number of European clubs, sources have told Football Insider.

The 26-year-old enjoyed a sparkling season in the Scottish Premiership and has already impressed at the World Cup with the tournament's lowest-ranked side New Zealand.

Celtic and Rangers have been long-term admirers of the midfielder, but will now face high-profile competition for his signature and could be set to miss out.

As I revaeled on the latest edition of Football Insider's Transfer Insider podcast, a number of European clubs are keeping a close eye on Just's performances at the World Cup.

After his two goals for New Zealand against Iran in their opening game in Los Angeles, interest in a deal is believed to have grown, and they will be tracking his next came closely.

As a result, Motherwell accept it will be difficult for them to keep hold of their star man, and will allow him to leave Fir Park for the right price this summer.

Football Insider revealed on 19 June that Celtic are planning to accelerate their move to sign Just after watching his performance against Iran, having been long-term admirers.

His performances for Motherwell in the last 12 months had inspired high-profile interest in his signature, with his experience in Scottish football also expected to be key.

Rangers' interest has emerged alongside that of their rivals, and while a poor season may put them at a disadvantage, they remain keen to reach an agreement.

Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: "He's really announced himself on the global stage with those two goals for New Zealand against Iran in the first game of the World Cup.

"Celtic and Rangers were both looking at Elijah Just this season as he was one of the standout players in the SPFL with Motherwell.

"He's only got a year left on his contract with Motherwell so I'm sure Motherwell are reluctantly resigned to cashing in on Elijah Just, especially if Celtic firm up their interest.

"Because of those performances from other well last season and also at this World Cup I think there'll be other teams in Europe that'll be ready to make a move for the winger as well."

Interest in Just has not just emerged from the two Old Firm clubs, with sides outside of the Scottish Premiership also keeping a close eye on his performances.

A number of English Championship clubs are also believed to be keen, with Southampton among those tracking his displays at the World Cup.

Football Insider reported on 16 June that Just could be the "perfect" signing for Southampton, with the Saints looking to bolster their squad ahead of next season.

Tonda Eckert is keen to bolster the side which came so close to promotion last time out, before the spygate controversy ended an shot at the playoff final.

A number of players have been linked with moves away from St Mary's this summer, but they will need replacing, and Just has been identified as a target.