Alistair Johnston of Celtic on the ball.
9th August 2026; Rugby Park, Scottish Premiership Kilmarnock versus Celtic; Alistair Johnston of Celtic on the ball. Photo by Vagelis Georgariou
Everton have not completely abandoned their interest in Celtic defender Alistair Johnston despite talks over a potential move reaching an impasse.
Alistair Johnston of Celtic arrives at rugby Park
9th August 2026; Rugby Park, Scottish Premiership Kilmarnock versus Celtic; Alistair Johnston of Celtic. Photo by Vagelis Georgariou
The Canada international has been on the Toffees’ radar throughout the summer, although progress towards taking him to Merseyside appeared to have slowed in recent days.
A disagreement between the clubs over Johnston’s valuation has complicated negotiations, with Everton subsequently beginning to explore alternative options at right-back.
However, fresh reporting from The i Paper suggests the possibility of a deal remains alive.
Johnston is said to have been identified as a “priority target” by Everton, but discussions with Celtic encountered difficulties because of a £5 million difference in valuations.
The Premier League side are now considering other candidates, including Brooke Norton-Cuffy, although their pursuit of Johnston is described as “not totally dead”.
The latest transfer speculation comes after the 27-year-old was taken off at the interval during Celtic’s 5-1 victory over Kilmarnock.
His early withdrawal prompted some concern over his fitness, but assistant manager Shaun Maloney insisted the decision was made as a “precaution”.
“He felt something. That was just precautionary, we hope,” Maloney said.
“I thought the back four and the two in front, Callum and Engels, were really good. Hopefully he’s fine.”
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