Everton ready to strike as £15m-rated Celtic defender pushes for exit

Celtic transfer news: Everton‘s search for a new right-back has taken another twist after fresh claims linked Alistair Johnston with a switch to Merseyside. According to Transfer Feed, the 27-year-old wants the move, although Celtic have stayed firm on their £15 million asking price and haven’t softened their stance during negotiations. Reports from Merseyside add that Celtic could become more open to discussing a sale once their Champions League play-off against LASK Linz has finished, with the Scottish champions determined to keep their squad intact before such an important tie.

Celtic transfer news: Everton receive fresh boost in Johnston pursuit

That approach makes sense from Celtic’s viewpoint. Johnston still plays a key role in Martin O’Neill’s plans and brings experience at domestic and European level. During the 2025/26 Scottish Premiership season, the Canada international made 18 league appearances, scored one goal and produced three assists despite spending a lengthy spell on the sidelines due to a recurring hamstring injury.

Celtic transfer news: Celtic hold the stronger position

Everton may have encouragement from the player’s reported desire to leave, yet that doesn’t hand them control of these talks. Johnston signed a long-term contract until 2029, leaving Celtic in a comfortable negotiating position with no pressure to accept an offer they consider below market value.

His domestic campaign lacked continuity because of injury, though he quickly reminded everyone of his quality. Johnston started every match for Canada at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, delivering composed displays against elite opposition after many questioned whether he would regain top form. Before that, he featured in all 10 Champions League matches for Celtic during the previous campaign while maintaining an impressive 90% passing accuracy, a figure that highlights his calmness in possession.

Celtic transfer news: Timing matters more than Everton’s interest

Selling Johnston before facing LASK Linz would pose unnecessary risk. Champions League qualification offers financial rewards well beyond the immediate return from a £15 million transfer, while replacing an established first-choice right-back at this stage of the window would hardly be straightforward.

Read: Celtic close in on £9m deal for 24-year-old as breakthrough arrives

Chris Sutton has already argued that Celtic shouldn’t weaken themselves before decisive European fixtures, especially after previous departures disrupted momentum. His point carries genuine substance. Johnston’s World Cup displays strengthened his standing, his contract gives Celtic leverage, and interest from Premier League clubs means the Scottish champions have every reason to push closer to £20-25 million instead of accepting the current valuation.