Everton transfer interest in a Celtic star could now be complicated by injury.
David Moyes reportedly faces a decision over whether or not to pursue a Celtic star - but Everton transfer advances could be scuppered by injury.
The Premiership champions are preparaing for a crucial Champions League play-off with LASK next week and are hoping to keep top stars like Alistair Johnston ahead of it amid interest. Everton are said to be keen on bringing the right-back to Merseyside after his return to form following an injury-plagued 25/26 season.
Celtic’s price demand though has left the Premier League side in a spin though as alternatives are sought. That said, the £20m fee the Hoops are looking for is roughly what Everton will need to spend on a new right-back anyway, so it could leave boss Moyes with a decision on who he ultimately prefers as a player.
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Transfer journalist Alan Nixon said via Patreon: “Everton boss David Moyes is set to make a decision on a deal for Crystal Palace right back Daniel Munoz. The shock transfer, first revealed here two days ago, has now come to a head with a few and terms not considered a problem.
“Moyes just has to commit to the Colombian who is rated one of the best right wing backs around - but may not fit snugly into his way of playing. The fee would be just around £20 million, which is similar to the valuation on the head of Celtic’s Alistair Johnston. So it will come down to which one Moyes fancies most for football reasons rather than financial.”
That decision could be complicated by Johnston’s injury that puts him at risk for the LASK clash. He was subbed at half-time in the weekend win over Kilmarnock in what was hoped to be a precautionary move, however, it’s been reported as severe enough to possibly put a summer exit in doubt. The Scottish Sun state: “Alistair Johnston is a major injury doubt for Celtic’s Champions League play-off against LASK Linz.
Alistair Johnston has told Celtic he 'wants' to move to Everton this summer, according to reports.placeholder image
Alistair Johnston has told Celtic he 'wants' to move to Everton this summer, according to reports. | AFP via Getty Images
“SunSport understands the Canadian could now face a spell on the sidelines in a hammer blow for the player and Martin O’Neill. Johnston – wanted by Everton – missed the bulk of last season with a serious hamstring problem but returned to help Celtic clinch the title. He then starred for Canada at the World Cup before starting the Hoops’ first two Premiership games, amid the Toffees’ big-money interest. But any chance of a big-money Premier League switch could now be scuppered after this untimely injury blow.”