Sources: Alistair Johnston to Everton could be back on

Everton are still “keeping tabs” on Alistair Johnston despite recently cooling their interest in the Celtic man, sources have told Football Insider. 

The Toffees were put off in their pursuit of the right-back due to the Bhoys’ asking price, with the Glasgow giants only entertaining a deal starting at £15million. 

However, David Moyes’ side are still hunting for a new right-back as a top priority, and haven’t fully given up hope of landing Johnston. 

The 27-year-old’s desire to move to the Premier League has left Everton hoping that the door could still be open for them to make a last-minute move. 

Premier League clubs have until 1 September to strengthen their squads for the new season, and Everton are expected to be shopping right up until the deadline. 

Celtic have been successful in their attempts to fend off their interest so far, but their job remains far from done. 

Celtic set boundary for Alistair Johnston exit 

Celtic were without Johnston for much of last season, as the 27-year-old recovered from a long-term injury. 

However, he returned before the end of the campaign to prove his quality once again, while a strong World Cup only reinforced his ability this summer. 

Celtic view him as a key part of their project long-term, and as a result, are not keen on the idea of selling him until after their Champions League play-off. 

Martin O’Neill’s side will face Austrian outfit LASK for a place in the league phase, with the second leg of that clash taking place on 25 August. 

With the club reluctant to part with Johnston until after that tie has concluded, Everton now know that any renewed attempt to sign him will have to come late in the window. 

Johnston is just one of several options to fill their right-back slot at the moment, and they have not been fully deterred by their failure on their first attempt.

Jack Grealish ‘favourites’ named as Aston Villa join race

Football Insider revealed on Wednesday that Everton remain the “favourites” to sign Jack Grealish this summer, despite Aston Villa now showing an interest.

Atletico Madrid are also keen to offer the winger the chance to play abroad, but it is Everton who remain in pole position at the moment. 

It is understood that the success of Grealish’s loan spell on Merseyside last term has kept them at the front of the queue, while his strong relationship with Moyes is another element in their favour. 

The wideman’s long-term future at Manchester City remains in serious doubt, and Everton are the most likely beneficiaries at the moment.