Celtic star Alistair Johnston makes up his mind between joining Everton and Fulham

Alistair Johnston is keen to join Everton ahead of Fulham and Celtic are resigned to losing him if their valuation of his services is met, sources have told Football Insider.

He impressed at the World Cup with co-hosts Canada despite struggling to find fitness throughout the last Premiership campaign.

Johnston has been rated as one of the best defenders in Scotland since joining the Hoops in January 2023.

Everton want to sign him this summer, and as I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider's Transfer Insider podcast, he is pushing to make a Premier League switch to take the next step in his career.

Celtic resigned to Alistair Johnston exit as Everton lead PL race

Martin O'Neill has confirmed Everton's interest in Johnston over the last few days, but they are yet to make a concrete offer.

Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: "It'll be hard to keep hold of (Johnston) when you've got interest from the Premier League, because I'm sure the player would like that opportunity to play at the highest level possible, and obviously it'll be a lucrative deal for him in that respect as well.

"He has three years left on his contract, but I think it's going to be real tough battle now for Celtic to keep hold of him with this growing interest in him."

Mika Baur moving closer to Celtic switch as transfer talks accelerate

O'Neill is keen to add to his squad as soon as possible, with the new season now underway as they face Dundee on Monday evening.

Paderborn midfielder Baur has emerged onto their radar after he fired his club to the top flight and was named as their Player of the Year last season.

Sources have revealed to Football Insider that Baur is pushing for a move to Parkhead as the clubs hold talks over agreeing a fee.

Celtic have seen a £4m bid for his services rejected in the last week, but should be able to seal a move for around £4.3m.

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