BBC commentator Scott Wilson has reported that Celtic have agreed a fee to sign Canada’s World Cup defender Alastair Johnston from MLS side CF Montreal – and that he will be moving to Parkhead at the end of the tournament.
Johnston, 24, has been strongly linked with Celtic over the past couple of weeks. All while, the Canada star has been impressing in Qatar. While Canada have lost both of their World Cup games, they have certainly caught the eye.
Outplaying Belgium but losing 1-0, and then scoring inside the first two minutes against Croatia – only to lose 4-1. Johnston – who can play as a right-back, or a right wing-back – has played every minute. He starred on Sunday.
With Johnston sharing the pitch with Celtic defender Josip Juranovic, who endured a torrid time against Alphonso Davies, Wilson spoke of Johnston’s move to Celtic. He said a fee had been agreed and he was set to move to Glasgow.
“Little sub-plot. Croatia’s right-back Josip Juranovic plays for Celtic. For Canada, it is Johnston. I’m told a fee has been agreed, he will be joining Celtic after the World Cup. So they will be teammates and fighting for the same position.”
Wilson: Celtic have agreed fee to sign Johnston
Numerous reports are suggesting a fee for Johnston will be in the region of £3million. It comes after a wonderful 2022 campaign with Montreal, in which he had a hand in eight goals during 39 games. His first season at the MLS outfit.
The question is though, do Celtic need a right-back? Johnston is clearly a top talent and having starred in Qatar and in the MLS, he has the quality to impress a Celtic. But the Hoops have Juranovic and Celtic favourite Anthony Ralston.
It might be that Celtic are planning for life without Juranovic, with the Croatia ace being linked with a move to some of Europe’s biggest clubs. Indeed, The Record suggest that Celtic are putting plans in place in case Juranovic goes.
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