Celtic's Alistair Johnston Eyes Premier League Move Amidst Bid

Celtic find themselves in a familiar summer stand-off: a key player eager to test himself in the Premier League, and an offer on the table that still falls short of their valuation.

According to the Daily Record, a Premier League club have lodged an initial bid of £12 million plus add-ons for Alistair Johnston, the Canadian right-back who has quietly become one of Celtic’s most dependable performers. The proposed package could rise to around £15 million, but with three years remaining on his Parkhead contract, Celtic are in no rush to fold.

They want more. And they know they can ask for it.

Johnston, for his part, has not hidden his ambition. It is understood he has made clear to club officials over the course of this window that he is keen on a move to England’s top flight. The attraction is obvious: a step up in profile, a higher level of weekly competition, and the chance to measure himself against some of the world’s best forwards.

So far, though, desire has not yet met agreement. No deal is in place, and Celtic are holding firm, waiting for an improved proposal that better reflects the defender’s importance and contract situation.

The expectation around the deal, however, is growing. Reports suggest an agreement is likely to be “thrashed out” before the window closes, with Johnston increasingly tipped to move on from Glasgow this summer. The ingredients are all there: a willing player, a serious bidder, and a selling club that will sell — but only on its terms.

Manager's Perspective

Celtic manager Martin O’Neill has already spoken to Johnston in light of the interest and painted a picture of a player not agitating for a move, but not immune to the lure of a bigger stage.

“I've spoken to him on the back of the interest,” O’Neill said when asked about Everton’s pursuit of the defender. “Again, it was one of those where Alistair is perfectly happy here at the football club.

“But like anything else, your head can get turned very quickly, particularly if it's a really good club.

“He wouldn't leave here for a second-class Premier League club, if there is such a thing, but if a big, big club comes in, it's something you would have to look at. And I think it's only natural as well. If I were a player, I'd be exactly the same.”

Those words cut to the heart of Celtic’s position. They do not want to lose Johnston. They also recognise the reality of modern football. When a “big, big club” comes calling, holding a sizeable cheque and a Premier League platform, even the most content player starts to look outward.

For now, Celtic are playing a patient game, pushing the fee higher while the clock ticks on a deal that feels more likely than not. The next move belongs to the Premier League suitors: meet Celtic’s price, or risk watching a coveted right-back stay in Glasgow a little longer.