'That sounds like a David Moyes deal' - Everton could be about to pull off real coup

Everton would be making a strong signing if they can complete a deal for Celtic right-back Alistair Johnston.

That is the opinion of former senior Everton scout, Bryan King, speaking exclusively to Football Insider.

The Toffees have reportedly hit an impasse in talks for the 27-year-old, who is available for around £15million this summer.

Everton hoped to pay around £12m, but Celtic are determined to stick to their asking price for Johnston and are under no pressure to sell with him under contract until 2029.

The Canada international has reportedly told the Hoops that he would like to make the move, but is unlikely to attempt to force the transfer.

Everton have explored other options, with the likes of Djed Spence and Ridle Baku also linked.

Alistair Johnston is a 'David Moyes' type target

Everton have been chasing a defender for much of the summer, with David Moyes' patience surely running thin.

The Premier League season is less than three weeks away, and the Toffees are still weak in defence.

The arrivals of Hayden Hackney and Christian Norgaard have made for welcome arrivals in midfield, but work desperately needs to be done at the back.

Seamus Coleman's departure has left the Toffees with just seven senior defenders and of those, three played almost no football last season and two are 33 years old.

"That sounds something like a David Moyes [deal] because he's done well at Celtic, especially when Martin O'Neill came back," King told Football Insider when asked about Johnston.

"As did all the players, by the way. Now, that's an interesting signing for him. And a decent price for a decent player."

Asked about the adaptation from Scotland to the Premier League, he added: "I think quality players do. I think quality players can adapt coming from anywhere."

Everton must stump up Johnston cash

If not for action in the coming days, Celtic's situation at right-back could quickly become very ugly.

Moyes' side are one or two injuries away from full blown disaster, and there is only so much patience the Scot can have.

Johnston is an international right-back and at the very, very least, a body capable of providing cover.

For just £15m, Everton would be mad to see the deal slip away.