Everton interest in Celtic right-back Alistair Johnston has reportedly cooled after the Scottish champions stood firm on their valuation of the Canada international.
David Moyes has been credited with a long-standing interest in the 27-year-old as Everton continue their search for a long-term solution at right-back following Seamus Coleman’s departure.
Johnston enhanced his reputation with another strong season for Celtic last term before impressing for Canada at the World Cup. But the defender remains under a long-term contract at Celtic Park and is regarded as an important part of Martin O’Neil’s squad.
According to the Daily Record, Celtic are unwilling to lower their asking price, with Everton currently reluctant to meet the Scottish club’s valuation.
The report comes after Everton were also linked with Atlético Madrid defender Nahuel Molina earlier this week, suggesting the club are continuing to explore several options as they look to strengthen at right-back before the transfer window closes.
Johnston’s consistency for both Celtic and Canada has made him an attractive target, but Everton are unlikely to move significantly beyond their own valuation as they continue to assess the market.
There remains plenty of time for the situation to change before the window shuts, and transfer negotiations can shift quickly. However, the latest report suggests Everton are, for now at least, looking elsewhere as they continue their search for defensive reinforcements.
Whether the Blues revisit their interest later this month remains to be seen, but Celtic’s firm stance appears to have brought any immediate prospect of a deal to a halt.
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