3rd May 2026; Easter Road, Edinburgh, Scotland: Scottish Premiership Football, Hibernian versus Celtic; Alistair Johnston of Celtic
Everton’s interest in Alistair Johnston has been confirmed by Martin O’Neill, with the Celtic manager revealing he has already spoken to David Moyes about the defender’s future.
Johnston heads into the new Premiership season after an impressive summer with Canada at the World Cup.
The 27-year-old started every match as Canada reached the last 16 for the first time, enhancing a growing reputation that had already been established in Glasgow.
It marked a strong return after an injury-hit campaign. Johnston spent around six months on the sidelines last season before coming back to play a key role as Celtic retained the league title and lifted the Scottish Cup.
There was little sign of rust when he returned. He settled straight back into the right-back position and quickly reminded supporters why he has become such an important part of the side.
His performances on the international stage were always likely to attract attention, and O’Neill has now confirmed Everton are preparing to make their move.
Celtic’s Alistair Johnston celebrates after scoring his sides second goal during the Premier Sports Cup second round match at Celtic Park, Glasgow. Picture date: Friday August 15, 2025.
Speaking to the media, the Celtic boss revealed that contact has already been made from Goodison Park.
“Everton have been in contact. And I’m not sure whether there’s been a bid in there for that one, but they’ve been in contact saying that they would be.
“In fairness, David Moyes did call me last week and say that there would be contact.
“But I don’t know how far that has progressed, if it has at all. But yeah, that would be disappointing obviously. But I suppose it’s to be expected, you know, players who have done well.
“Alistair did an excellent World Cup with Canada. And that enhanced his chances, naturally. But I think you have to try and do your best to balance everything.” (Celtic Player)
While there is no confirmation that Everton have submitted a formal offer, O’Neill’s comments suggest it is only a matter of time before one arrives.
Whether it comes close to Celtic’s valuation is another question entirely.
Johnston remains under contract until 2029, leaving Celtic in a strong negotiating position. There is no pressure on the club to sell, and any interested side will have to meet a figure that reflects both his importance to the team and the length of his deal.
O’Neill also acknowledged the wider challenge facing Celtic when clubs from wealthier leagues come calling.
“Try and get new players in. Try and hold the players that you have. At the same time, that’s utopia. Unfortunately, that’s not real life.”
Those comments come after O’Neill also confirmed West Ham have lodged a bid for Arne Engels, although he made it clear the offer falls well short of Celtic’s valuation.
Transfer speculation continues to build around several key players, but O’Neill’s immediate focus remains on Monday night’s Premiership opener against Dundee.
Keeping his strongest squad together would be the ideal scenario, but with Johnston’s stock rising after an excellent World Cup, Celtic may soon have another significant transfer decision to make.