Celtic fans will be relieved by the latest update surrounding Alistair Johnston and interest from the Premier League. The Boys right-back is attracting interest from down South following an impressive World Cup with Canada, helping his nation reach the Round of 16 for the first time.
Johnston missed much of last season with a serious injury, but he returned for the run-in and managed to get in rhythm for the World Cup. The reliable right-back's performances have now seen him attract interest from Everton, while Fulham have also been linked. But there could be some good news.
Everton approach not likely to come close to Celtic price
It emerged this week that Everton were interested in submitting a ÂŁ10million bid for Johnston, and there has been concern among Celtic fans that the Bhoys would cash in.
But according to the Daily Record's Michael Gannon, Celtic's valuation is more than twice that amount. He told Hotline Line: “We’ve heard about Everton keeping an eye on him for a few weeks. From what I gather, that’s now stepping up to preparing an actual bid for Johnston. He’s very high on the top of the wishlist for Moyes.
“The money required to make Celtic blink: I think you’re looking north of £20million, maybe even towards £25million. I don’t think, from what I’m being told, Everton value him that highly. Maybe £10m to £15m. I don't think £15m will make Celtic blink.”
Johnston only cost Celtic ÂŁ3million, but he has proven himself a very reliable player, and he is not coming into his peak. The Canadian is also the type of player who would take a Premier League move in his stride, given his ability to play physical football.
Above all, Celtic have already sold Daizen Maeda this summer, bringing in ÂŁ10million, and they are expecting to sell Arne Engels for ÂŁ25million, and Reo Hatate could also leave for around ÂŁ6million.
The Bhoys already have holes in their squad, and Johnston would leave a giant hole, keeping in mind the new season starts on Monday night. Celtic have struggled to do business this summer, and replacing players like Engels will be a difficult task to pull off.
Having to replace Johnston would be a big problem for the club's recruitment staff, so it simply wouldn't be worth Celtic accepting anything less than an offer that is too good to refuse. Premier League clubs will be better off trying their luck next summer when the club may be willing to allow Johnston to get his big move.
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