What Alistair Johnston has told Celtic as Everton 'on the verge' of landing top right-back priority

Alistair Johnston looks likely to be Everton's next signing this summer.

Celtic's right-back has emerged as a top target for the Toffees in the last week, and is now said to be closing in on a move to Hill Dickinson.

It would tick a huge box for David Moyes, who knew what his top priority was heading into the summer market.

Jake O'Brien filled in at right-back for almost the entirety of last campaign, though it was a clear weakened position for the Blues.

The likes of Djed Spence and Guela Doue have been on their radar, but it seems they have settled on who they truly want on Merseyside.

Johnston is who Everton want, as a new package deal has been offered to Celtic for their star.

What Alistair Johnson has told Celtic as Everton close in on new signing

Goodison News has covered suggestions that Johnston could triple his wages at Everton.

Manager Martin O'Neill has publicly spoken about the situation, hinting that the Hoops have already rejected an offer from the Toffees.

However, the former Northern Ireland boss also admitted that Celtic understand that there isn't much they can do if a player has had their head turned by the prospect of Premier League football.

According to an update from the Daily Record on Sunday, Johnston is "on the verge" of checking out of Parkhead ahead of a move to the Toffees.

Everton are said to be close to sealing a move for the Canada international, in a deal that could be worth up to £15million.

The player has told Celtic that he wants to move to the Premier League outfit, which will bring to an end his time with the Scottish side.

It's said that the Blues are offering a package deal of £12m plus add-ons, with Celtic wanting more.

However, a deal is expected to be reached, as O'Neill is now "resigned" to losing Johnston.

What will be good indicator of Johnston's move to Everton

A financial agreement between Celtic and Everton will still need to be reached for Johnston.

There have been previous suggestions that the Hoops will want £25m for the 27-year-old, but given a deal is close, their asking price is much more likely to be less than that.

Everton could get their biggest sign of Johnston's departure when Celtic play Dundee FC on Monday.

If the defender is left out of the squad, he could be on his way to the Toffees very soon.

Likewise, his inclusion could act as his final display for the Hoops.