“No Rush to Sell” – Celtic In Strong Position Should Bids Come In for Key Star

Celtic are still waiting to make their first signing of the summer, but several current squad members have used the World Cup to remind clubs exactly what they are capable of.

Daizen Maeda’s tournament ended in heartbreaking fashion as Japan fell to Brazil after conceding a 95th-minute winner.

The Celtic forward was one of his country’s standout performers, scoring against Sweden and earning widespread praise for his displays. Former Hoops manager Ange Postecoglou was among those to highlight Maeda’s relentless pressing after Japan’s Round of 32 defeat.

With the 28-year-old recently making his clearest admission yet that he could leave Celtic this summer in search of a new challenge, supporters are already bracing themselves for what could become one of the biggest transfer stories of the window.

While Maeda’s future remains uncertain, there is another Celtic player whose performances have not gone unnoticed.

Alistair Johnston has featured in every one of Canada’s World Cup matches so far and completed the full 90 minutes in their Round of 32 victory over South Africa.

The right-back has once again shown the consistency that has made him one of Celtic’s most dependable players since arriving in Glasgow in January 2023. Reliable defensively and always willing to contribute going forward, Johnston has looked right at home on football’s biggest stage.

That level of performance inevitably attracts attention.

Speaking on CeltsAreHere Extra Time, Mark Hendry outlined why Celtic remain in a strong position despite the growing interest Johnston is likely to generate.

“The defender has shown his prowess both defensively and in attack for the Canucks and will have put himself in the shop window whether he or Celtic wanted him to or not.

“Johnston, 27, has been as consistent for his nation as he has been in three years in Glasgow. Right-back is a troublesome position to get right and clubs will absolutely have the popular defender on their shortlist by the time this tournament is over.

“He is contracted at Celtic until 2029 so there is no rush to sell. There is no desire to sell, either. And yet, after this competition runs its course, if a massive offer comes in for the bonafide star it could be difficult to pass up. Although it really would have to be funny money.”

That is ultimately where Celtic’s position differs from many other clubs.

Every player has a valuation, but Johnston is under a long-term contract until 2029 and Celtic have no need to entertain offers unless they are truly exceptional. With the club already facing a significant summer rebuild, losing one of the first names on the teamsheet would create another major problem to solve.

His return from injury towards the end of last season served as a reminder of the standards he brings. Celtic looked stronger with him back in the side, both for his quality on the pitch and the leadership he provides around the squad.

For now, Johnston’s focus will be on helping Canada reach the World Cup quarter-finals for the first time in their history. Whatever interest follows after the tournament, Celtic remain in control of the situation.

That is exactly where they will want to stay.