Football: Scottish Cup Celtic s Daizen Maeda L scores in the first half of a Scottish Cup semifinal football match against St. Johnstone in Glasgow, Scotland, on April 20, 2025. Imago Images
Celtic are bracing themselves for a significant offer from Everton as the Toffees prepare to make a formal move for Alistair Johnston.
No official bid has yet landed at Parkhead, but the English club is understood to be readying its approach for the Canadian international right back.
Johnston himself is aware of the interest, with his impressive performances at the World Cup having significantly raised his profile across European football.
Everton manager David Moyes has been monitoring Johnston closely and is now prepared to step up his pursuit of the 27-year-old defender.
The Toffees are believed to be willing to spend more than £10 million to secure Johnston’s signature and bring him to Goodison Park.
Celtic are hoping to hold onto the player for at least one more season, pointing to a contract that runs until 2029 as a strong negotiating position.
Johnston has been a standout performer since joining the Hoops in a £3 million move from Montreal back in 2022, quickly becoming a fan favourite.
His last campaign was disrupted significantly after he suffered a serious hamstring injury in October, sidelining him for a lengthy stretch of the season.
He returned to fitness at a crucial moment, however, playing a key role as Celtic completed the league and cup Double before the summer break.
Everton are leading the race for his signature, but they face competition from Premier League rivals Fulham and Ipswich Town, as well as several clubs in England and across the continent.
Celtic will be determined to resist any approaches for a player who has become one of the most reliable performers in the Scottish Premiership in recent seasons.
With Johnston’s stock continuing to rise following his World Cup displays with Canada, the Hoops may face a significant battle to retain his services this summer.
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