Everton’s Search for a Right-Back
Everton have reportedly contacted Celtic concerning the availability of Canadian international right-back Alistair Johnston. According to Celtic manager Martin O’Neill, Everton manager David Moyes initiated contact last week regarding a potential move for the player. This development comes as Everton seeks to strengthen their right-back position following the departure of captain Seamus Coleman and uncertainty surrounding Nathan Patterson’s future.
The Merseyside club has been exploring various options for the role, including Strasbourg’s Guela Doue. The search has now led them to approach Celtic for Johnston, who is 27 years old. While contact has been made, sources familiar with the situation indicate that a firm bid has not yet materialised, as Everton continues to evaluate other potential targets for the position.
O’Neill confirmed the contact in a press conference ahead of Celtic’s Scottish Premiership opener against Dundee. He mentioned that while Moyes had been in touch, he was unsure how far discussions had progressed. O’Neill acknowledged that losing a player who has performed well would be disappointing but also an expected part of football.
Johnston’s Impact and Potential Move
Alistair Johnston joined Celtic in 2023 and has since won the Scottish Premiership on four occasions. He has made 85 league appearances for the Glasgow-based club, contributing with six goals and 13 assists. Before his time at Celtic, he played for CF Montreal and Nashville SC.
Johnston returned from a hamstring injury that limited him to 11 club appearances last season to feature for his country at the World Cup, where he was named in the team of the group stage. His performance at the World Cup has reportedly drawn attention from clubs in Europe’s top leagues.
From an attacking standpoint, Johnston has demonstrated considerable impact. Since his arrival at Celtic in January 2023, he has created 156 chances across all competitions. This tally is surpassed only by Matt O’Riley, who moved to Brighton in 2024. Among all defenders in the Scottish Premiership during the same period, only James Tavernier has created more opportunities than Johnston. Tavernier is also the only defender with more goal involvements than Johnston’s 30, which include seven goals and 23 assists for Celtic.
Despite his attacking contributions, some concerns have been raised regarding his defensive positioning and physical presence. Additionally, the hamstring injury that sidelined him for a significant portion of last season is noted as a potential concern, given that pace and energy are key aspects of his game.
Celtic is reportedly keen to retain Johnston, who is under contract until 2029. However, there is a possibility that the player might be interested in a move to the English Premier League, which could offer increased wages and an opportunity to play in a major European league during what is considered his prime years. The club’s stance from within Parkhead suggests they neither need nor want to sell Johnston at this time, especially with a Champions League qualifier on the horizon.
Transfer Dynamics and Club Needs
Everton’s need for a right-back is considered urgent. Last season, the team frequently deployed central defender Jake O’Brien out of position in that role, and midfielder Merlin Rohl has filled in during pre-season matches. While both players performed admirably, neither is seen as a long-term solution.
The potential acquisition of Johnston, a natural right-back, could provide Everton with a new dimension on the right flank, an area where the team has often lacked width. While a deal would require significant work, the pursuit of Johnston indicates that Everton’s search for a right-back is gaining momentum.
Reports from Merseyside suggest that Everton might be willing to spend a notable amount for the player. However, it is uncertain if this figure would meet Celtic’s valuation, as the Scottish club may hold out for a higher fee. If a deal were to progress, Johnston would have several weeks to integrate into the squad before Everton’s Premier League season commences.
O’Neill also confirmed interest from Championship side West Ham United in midfielder Arne Engels, but noted that the clubs remain far apart in their respective valuations of the Belgian player.
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Source: nytimes.com
