Celtic Firm on Alistair Johnston Amid Premier League Interest
Celtic and a Premier League suitor are locked in a standoff over Alistair Johnston, with the Scottish champions refusing to be rushed into a cut‑price sale of their Canadian right-back.
According to the Daily Record, the English club have lodged an opening offer of £12 million plus add-ons, a package that could rise to around £15m. For a defender who still has three years remaining on his Parkhead contract, Celtic believe there is more value on the table and are pushing for an improved deal before they even think about signing off.
The player’s stance is clear. Johnston is understood to be eager to test himself in the Premier League and has made that known to club officials during this summer window. The attraction is obvious: a step up in profile, a higher level of weekly competition, and the sort of move that can reshape a career.
Celtic, though, are under no pressure to blink first. With time left in the window and a strong contractual position, they are holding firm, waiting for the numbers to better reflect Johnston’s importance and potential resale value. No agreement has been reached, but the expectation around the deal is growing. Those close to the talks believe a compromise is likely to be thrashed out, clearing the way for Johnston to move on before the summer is out.
Manager Martin O'Neill has already spoken with the defender in the wake of the interest, and his assessment cuts through the noise.
"I've spoken to him on the back of the interest," O'Neill said when asked about Everton’s move for Johnston. "Again, it was one of those where Alistair is perfectly happy here at the football club.
"But like anything else, your head can get turned very quickly, particularly if it's a really good club.
"He wouldn't leave here for a second-class Premier League club, if there is such a thing, but if a big, big club comes in, it's something you would have to look at. And I think it's only natural as well. If I were a player, I'd be exactly the same."
That line sums up the situation. Celtic know they cannot, and should not, stand in the way of a major opportunity for a player who has served them well. But they also know the market, and they know what a modern, international full-back with years left on his deal should command.
For now, the bid sits on the table, the negotiations continue, and Johnston waits. The next offer might decide whether he spends another season patrolling the right flank at Parkhead or strides into the Premier League spotlight he clearly craves.
