Everton now considering bid for 'important' Celtic player - and it's not Arne Engels

Celtic could receive fresh interest from the Premier League in one of their key players, and it is not Arne Engels. The Bhoys are preparing to sell Daizen Maeda to Ipswich Town for £10million, and Engels is likely to be the next to depart amid interest aplenty down South.

The Hoops are braced for those exits, and it's a similar story with Reo Hatate, who will almost certainly leave, although interest does not seem to be so forthcoming in his case.

Celtic could now receive interest in defender

One player Celtic are not expecting, and certainly not hoping, to lose is Alistair Johnston, who dazzled at the World Cup this summer. The right-back was an ultra-steady performer as Canada reached their first-ever World Cup Round of 16, keeping in mind they also had an extra knockout round to navigate in this World Cup.

Johnston was one of the Canucks' best players, and that has not gone unnoticed, with Premier League club Everton now reportedly showing interest. According to The Sun, David Moyes likes the look of the full-back and could make a bid this summer.

It follows links between Johnston and Fulham, with the Cottagers also said to be keeping an eye on the Canadian. Johnston actually missed much of last season through a serious injury, but he came back in to play a part in the final run-in.

Martin O'Neill said at the time: “It’s great to have him back. He’s been out for a long time, and he’s worked really hard to get back. He’s an important player for us, and it’s great to see him back involved.”

Celtic certainly won't want to lose Johnston, already needing a new addition on the other side of defence this summer. And given the World Cup Johnston enjoyed, Celtic will likely command a significant fee from any potential buyers.

The Bhoys have Johnston under contract until 2029 as things stand, and given the other sales they are likely to commission this summer, they will be under no pressure to sell unless the player really pushes for a move.

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This article was originally published on thecelticbhoys.com as Everton now considering bid for 'important' Celtic player - and it's not Arne Engels.