Everton Pursue Alistair Johnston as Celtic Stands Firm on Transfer Fee
Everton is keen on acquiring Alistair Johnston, who is equally interested in making the move. Manager David Moyes holds a high regard for the player. However, despite this clarity, negotiations remain stalled due to financial disagreements.
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As reported by TeamTalk, Everton is “pressing ahead with negotiations” for the Celtic right-back, but “there is still significant work to do before any transfer can be considered done.” This encapsulates the situation—interest is genuine, conversations are ongoing, but progress is limited.
Celtic has made its stance clear. They are seeking “a package in the region of £15 million all-in” and are firm on this demand. As it stands, Everton “are yet to show a willingness to match that figure,” which is causing discussions to remain in a “holding pattern.”
This reflects the current state of Everton’s transfer dealings under Moyes. Target players are identified, needs are established, and Johnston fits the profile as Everton seeks a right-back. Moyes views him as having “energy, aggression, and intensity,” qualities typical of a functional full-back that he prefers.
Photo by IMAGO
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Everton Targets Alistair Johnston as Top Right-Back Option
There is clarity concerning the squad planning. TeamTalk reports that “a new right-back is one of Everton’s priorities,” and they have identified Johnston as their leading target. At this point, alternative options serve more as leverage rather than genuine pursuits.
While Ridle Baku is also mentioned as a potential option, the report indicates that Johnston is “the far more likely addition at this stage.” In other words, Everton is eager to complete this deal.
Consequently, Celtic holds a stronger negotiating position. Johnston is under contract until 2029, and Celtic is “under no immediate pressure to sell,” choosing to wait for the right offer rather than accept a lower one. Everton is well aware of this situation.
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Alistair Johnston Deal Relies on Financial Agreement
Encouragingly for Everton, the player’s side appears straightforward. TeamTalk states that Johnston is “fully supportive of the switch” and “ready to finalise terms with Everton once the clubs reach agreement.” Personal terms are not anticipated to pose any challenges.
This is often a crucial factor; when a player is willing to commit, negotiations can progress quickly upon reaching the right offer. However, for now, “the focus remains on bridging the valuation gap.” Until Everton either approach Celtic’s financial demands or the latter becomes more flexible, this situation will remain unresolved.
At this juncture, Everton seeks their target, Celtic demands their price, and Moyes awaits.
Photo: IMAGO
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Assessment of Current Situation
From the perspective of Everton supporters, this situation feels all too familiar. The need for a right-back is clear, and Moyes tends to prefer specific traits like discipline and toughness—traits that Johnston appears to possess. However, if he is the primary target, why are discussions still bogged down by valuation differences?
If Celtic seeks £15 million, Everton must determine whether the player is worth that price. The ongoing uncertainty serves no one well. Fans have witnessed past transfer windows where the club lingered on targets only to either overpay later or abandon talks after wasting significant time. Prolonging this situation into August could leave the squad vulnerable.
Additionally, there is the ongoing concern about whether Everton is prioritizing immediate needs or seeking value. Those goals may not align. While Johnston might be a suitable fit, if Everton is sold on him, they should act accordingly. If not, they should swiftly consider alternatives and avoid leaking information about ongoing discussions.
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One notable aspect is that Celtic feels no urgency to sell, putting pressure on Everton instead. The season proceeds regardless of negotiations. Fans will want this situation resolved promptly, as remaining in a “holding pattern” is not a viable strategy but rather a delay.
Source: TeamTalk