What Alistair Johnston injury latest means for Everton transfer pursuit

Alistair Johnston has suffered a major blow at Celtic amid interest from Everton.

The Toffees have been in talks with the Glaswegian outfit to sign the Canadian right-back this transfer window.

David Moyes is in desperate need of defensive reinforcements and has even spoken to Martin O'Neill about the 27-year-old, who had an impressive 2026 World Cup campaign after helping the Hoops win the league title last season.

An injury to Johnston has derailed a possible move to Hill Dickinson Stadium for now.

The Canada international stares at a potential delay over the resolution of his future.

With the Merseyside outfit clearly needing a new right-back as a priority, they may have their answer over signing the former Montreal defender.

What Martin O'Neill has said about Alistair Johnston injury amid Everton interest

Johnston is being monitored at Hill Dickinson Stadium, with the Toffees assessing all options.

There has been speculation that the defender faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines, and at minimum, will miss Celtic's next four fixtures.

O'Neill has now thrown cold water on the Merseyside outfit's hopes of signing Johnston, who is only expected to be back fit after the transfer window ends.

While the Canadian ace is expected back at Parkhead soon, the Blues may have to discard him as an option unless they want to take the risk of signing an injured player.

Speaking to the media on 14 August, O'Neill said, "[Johnston] will be out for a few weeks. By the time he's fit, it'll be past the transfer deadline."

Who David Moyes can now turn to at Hill Dickinson Stadium

While Kyle Walker has been dismissed as an Everton target, he may be an ideal short-term solution.

It doesn't look like Johnston will be moving anywhere this summer and January could be when he's available next.

If the Blues do see the Celtic star as their preferred long-term option, then bringing in someone like Walker for the next 12 months wouldn't be the worst idea.

The former England international has the required experience and leadership ability to make a difference in Merseyside.

What's certain is that Moyes must push The Friedkin Group to get him a new right-back or risk another underwhelming campaign in L3.