SPFL club break record transfer fee for second time in 11 months as 'stunning' form unlocks big money move

The New Zealand international who scored three goals at the World Cup shone in a standout Premiership campaign in claret and amber. He was nominated for several Player of the Year awards after seven goals and eight assists in a dynamic role across Motherwell’s frontline under Jens Berthel Askou.

It’s reported that Motherwell have scooped around £6m plus add-ons for Just and that eclipses what Serie A side Udinese paid for academy product Lennon Miller last summer. The star signed from Horsens in 2025 is the latest high-profile departure from Motherwell after Askou was replaced by Alfred Johansson in the dugout, while Elliot Watt, Callum Slattery, Calum Ward and Stephen Welsh have all moved on this summer.

Motherwell on selling Elijah Just

Chief executive Brian Caldwell said: “I want to wish Elijah all the very best for the future. His 12 months at the club will be remembered fondly by everyone, and he is a humble and genuine person who deserves every success. As a club, this move marks another hugely successful moment for our overall strategy. Setting a new record sale for the second time in the space of 11 months is down to the hard work of all the football staff involved at the club.

“Elijah Just is our fourth player sale during this summer window, and we have been working tirelessly to strengthen the squad going into a hugely competitive and important part of our season. Bringing five players in so far, we’ll continue to work on improving the squad ahead of the window closing.”

A Motherwell statement adds: “Elijah Just has joined Swansea City for a club-record fee. The New Zealand international had a stunning 12 months in Scotland after he joined the club from Danish 1st Division side Horsens in July last year. Despite this being a new club-record fee for the club, the overall fee will remain undisclosed under the terms of the agreement with Swansea. The fee sets a new record sale for the club, with a number of add-ons included in the agreement that could see this rise in the future. The club also wishes Elijah the very best for the future and thanks him for his immense contribution at the club.”

Why have Swansea City signed Elijah Just?

Swansea City head coach Vitor Matos said of the move for Just: "We're very excited to bring Elijah into the team. He can play in more than one position and his versatility will be a great fit in the side. Elijah joins us after performing well in all aspects of our recruitment process, and after a brilliant performance at the World Cup and we are very happy to have him with us.”

Sporting Director Ben Stevens added: “Delighted for Elijah to join us, he will add quality to our attack with the ability to play in multiple positions. He had a phenomenal World Cup with New Zealand where he really introduced himself on to the world footballing stage after a standout season with Motherwell. We feel his profile is a strong fit for Vitor's and the club's footballing style and this as an exciting opportunity for all parties".