Celtic's Alistair Johnston Targeted by Premier League Club for £15m Deal

A Premier League club have stepped up their pursuit of Alistair Johnston with an opening offer worth £12 million plus add-ons, as Celtic brace themselves for the likely departure of their Canadian right-back.

The package, first reported by the Daily Record, is understood to rise to around £15m once bonuses are triggered, reflecting Johnston’s status as a key asset with three years still to run on his Parkhead contract. Celtic, though, are in no rush to cash in. Not at that price.

The Scottish champions are holding out for an improved proposal, aware that Premier League money rarely stops at the first bid and fully conscious of the defender’s growing reputation. Talks are active, but no agreement has been reached.

Johnston’s stance is clear. The 25-year-old is believed to be keen on testing himself in England and has made his ambitions known to Celtic officials during this summer window. The lure of the Premier League is strong, and those close to the situation expect a deal to be “thrashed out” before the window closes, with Johnston moving on from Glasgow.

Celtic Manager's Comments

Celtic manager Martin O'Neill has already addressed the situation, acknowledging both the player’s contentment at the club and the reality of modern football when a major offer arrives.

"I've spoken to him on the back of the interest," O'Neill said when asked about Everton’s move for 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."

That line cuts to the heart of Celtic’s dilemma. Johnston is settled, valued, and central to their plans. Yet the market has its own gravity. A serious Premier League offer, from what O’Neill calls a “big, big club”, forces every party to pause and weigh up the next step.

For now, Celtic stand firm and the Premier League suitors wait. The numbers are rising, the noise is growing, and Johnston’s future looks increasingly likely to be decided not by whether he leaves, but by how high the bidding climbs.