Celtic should expect interest in one of their defensive standouts this summer, according to one pundit. The Bhoys are in for an interesting summer as they prepare to welcome Martin O'Neill back as permanent manager.
Much of the news surrounding the appointment has concerned O'Neill's demanding of a significant transfer budget as he looks to ensure a much better start to the season than the club managed - without him in charge - last term.
But so far, it looks likely that Celtic's departures will dominate the summer, with Daizen Maeda, Reo Hatate and Arne Engels all potentially leaving.
Johnston could join the queue
According to Celtic legend Jackie McNamara, full-back Alistair Johnston could be in line for a move as he prepares to represent Canada in their partly-home World Cup.
“I think AJ’s been a great signing for Celtic. He was definitely a loss on that right side this season," McNamara told the Daily Record.
"I know Auston Trusty fitted in at times but having that balance there to stretch the game down the right is important for the way Celtic play, so it was a big plus him coming back at late in the season. The timing of his return in the season was crucial.
“And yeah, I think they'll be hoping that he is one who stays. But anybody - even if it’s someone like Benjamin Nygren after all the goals he scored this season - if they have a good World Cup they will be linked with moves.
“That’s never going to change. If they're doing well, if their numbers are good such as Arne Engels or Daizen Maeda, you will have teams interested. And it might be the same with AJ.”
Johnston likely needs a steady season of fitness
While Johnston is a reliable enough defender to attract transfer interest, he likely needs a full season, or close to it, of fitness before he is snapped up by interested clubs. Johnston effectively missed the entirety of the season with a hamstring issue, and that's a big concern for any buying club, fortunately for Celtic.
Given he is only 27, you would hope it is not something that will keep returning, but it's not the type of injury that teams are going to ignore, especially for a full-back. And as for Johnston, it's unlikely he has a move on his mind after such a frustrating season.
The Canadian is likely to be looking forward to playing at the World Cup and then getting back to Celtic for a good pre-season and a fully fit season before trying to fulfil any ambitions of a move that may linger.
The Bhoys will just be hoping he returns in one piece, given the quick turnaround from his injury, but fortunately for Canada, who are one of the host nations, they do have a lot less travel to think about during the tournament, albeit only during the group stage.
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