Everton Remain in Pursuit of Alistair Johnston

Everton are still working to secure a deal for Celtic defender Alistair Johnston, according to reports. The Premier League club has made the Canadian international a priority target for the January transfer window, with manager David Moyes reportedly a strong admirer.

The player is said to be open to the move, but Celtic are under no pressure to sell. The Scottish champions have been resolute in their stance, and negotiations have dragged on without a breakthrough.

Context and Tactical Fit

Johnston, 26, has been a regular for Celtic since joining from CF Montréal in 2022. Known for his energetic displays and attacking runs from right-back, he would offer Everton an upgrade in that position. Currently, the Toffees have relied on Seamus Coleman, who is in the twilight of his career, and the versatile Ben Godfrey, who is more naturally a centre-back.

Moyes, who returned to Goodison Park in January, has prioritised defensive solidity. Johnston's work rate and ability to support the attack align well with the Scot's typical full-back requirements. His arrival would likely allow Everton to switch to a more fluid 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1 system, with the full-backs providing width.

Celtic, managed by Brendan Rodgers, have built a possession-based style, but Johnston has also shown defensive discipline. He has contributed two assists in the Scottish Premiership this season, helping Celtic maintain a formidable lead at the top of the table.

Impact and Analysis

For Everton, the pursuit of Johnston signals ambition under Moyes's second spell. The club sits in 16th place, only four points above the relegation zone. Strengthening the defence is vital, and a player of Johnston's calibre would improve their chances of survival.

  • Everton have conceded 29 goals in 24 league games, the fifth-worst record in the division.
  • Johnston has won 62% of his tackles this season, a solid figure for a full-back.
  • Crystal Palace, West Ham and Nottingham Forest have also been linked with the defender, but Everton appear the most advanced.

From Celtic's perspective, holding out for a higher fee makes sense. The club are in a strong financial position and are not reliant on selling key players. With Johnston under contract until 2027, they can dictate terms.

For Fantasy Premier League managers, Johnston's potential arrival at Everton is worth monitoring. He averages 3.1 points per game this season, with occasional attacking returns. If he becomes a regular starter, he could be a budget option at around £4.5m, especially given Everton's decent run of fixtures in late February.

What's Next

The transfer window closes on February 3, and Everton are running out of time. Celtic have reportedly rejected an initial offer, believed to be in the region of £8 million. Further discussions are expected, but a deal is not imminent.

If Everton fail to land Johnston, they may turn to alternative targets, but the club's interest signals their intent to reinforce. For the player, a move to the Premier League would be a career step, but he is understood to be patient and content at Celtic if the transfer does not materialise.

The coming days will be crucial. Everton must decide whether to increase their bid or walk away. Celtic, meanwhile, have no need to sell unless the offer meets their valuation. As the deadline approaches, the outcome remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: Everton's interest is genuine, and Johnston is a player they want.

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