Why Everton have their Alistair Johnston opening as Celtic brace themselves
Everton's right-back hunt keeps springing up new names, with Celtic's Alistair Johnston the latest.
The Toffees have been slow to react in the transfer market so far, with even their signing of Hayden Hackney happening over a drawn-out saga.
Among the squad, the Englishman is still the only new face at Finch Farm while priority positions continue to be evaluated.
Right-back is certainly one of those defining areas of David Moyes' squad, and that was clear in the most recent Everton friendly.
Goodison News will be keeping up with Everton's pre-season games, including the recent 4-0 win against Dundee FC.
And in that match, Merlin Rohl was deployed at right-back, highlighting the need for a new addition, and Celtic's Johnston could be that man.
What has been said about Everton's interest in Alistair Johnston?
Johnston did not have the best of seasons in the last campaign.
He spent the majority of the season on the sidelines dealing with a hamstring issue.
The injury kept him out from August to April and he made just seven league appearances for the SPFL champions.
But that has not put off potential suitors.
According to the print edition of the Daily Record on Thursday, Celtic are "braced" to be met with "big-money bids" for the Canada international.
And among those that may be looking to lure the full-back away from Celtic Park are Everton.
Moyes is reportedly "keen" on Johnston as he looks to solve a long-term problem at Hill Dickinson Stadium - finally.
Currently, only Nathan Patterson is contracted to Everton's senior team as a natural right-back, but based on last season's selections, he is not favoured by Moyes at all.
How do Celtic feel about selling Johnston?
The information from the media outlet also shares that Celtic are not in a hurry to sell the right-back.
But the fact that they are already preparing for the possibility of an exit, rather than downright denying a transfer is positive for Everton.
As Everton look to add another right-back to their ranks, the expectation at Celtic Park creates an opening to make a move.
If Everton are able to hit the right valuation and put reasonable terms on the table, then Johnston's future would come under genuine scrutiny.
The Blues have also been linked to a number of other right-backs, so it does remain to be seen if Johnston is just another name on the shortlist or a true possibility.