Overview
- Reporting on Wednesday and Thursday says Everton are preparing a formal approach for Alistair Johnston, the player is aware of the interest and no official bid has been confirmed publicly.
- Media coverage suggests Everton could pay more than £10 million, but Celtic hold the 27-year-old on a contract through 2029 which strengthens their negotiating position.
- The reported pursuit reflects Everton’s clear need for a natural right-back after Seamus Coleman left and Jake O’Brien filled the role last season.
- Many Everton supporters reacted negatively on social channels to the Johnston link, questioning whether he would be an upgrade for the team.
- Other clubs including Fulham, Ipswich and unnamed continental teams have been linked to Johnston, whose late return from a serious knee injury helped Celtic win a domestic double and whose World Cup displays in 2026 raised his profile.