“Silly Money” – Chris Sutton Sends Alistair Johnston Transfer Warning

Chris Sutton has urged Celtic not to sell Alistair Johnston unless a huge offer arrives for the right-back.

The former Hoops striker posted his reaction after Celtic opened the league season with a narrow win over Dundee at Celtic Park.

Benjamin Nygren scored the only goal of the game with a close-range header from Kieran Tierney’s cross.

Celtic had chances to make the result more comfortable, while Kasper Høgh was unable to mark his league debut with a goal.

Sutton felt the main job had been done, even if the performance left room for improvement.

Job done for Celtic… should’ve, could’ve won by more but three points is the most important thing. Wasn’t Hogh’s night but patience required. Absolutely loved seeing Carter Vickers back… he’s been missed. The club should not sell Alastair Johnston unless it’s silly money…

— Chris Sutton (@chris_sutton73) August 3, 2026

Sutton’s point on Høgh was fair after the striker passed up a few good openings.

The Dane was lively and found space in the box, but his finishing was not quite there on the night.

There were also clear positives elsewhere.

Cameron Carter-Vickers looked calm on his return and gave Celtic more strength at the back.

His presence helped the Hoops deal with Dundee’s direct play, while Viljami Sinisalo also made a few good saves when called upon.

Sutton’s strongest message, though, was about Johnston.

The Canada international has been linked with a move away from Celtic, with Everton scouts reportedly at Celtic Park for the Dundee game.

That will only add to the talk around his future, but Sutton believes the club should only consider a sale if the fee is too good to turn down.

Johnston remains one of Celtic’s most reliable players and gives the side a strong outlet down the right.

Losing him at this stage of the window would leave Martin O’Neill needing another first-choice defender while the season is already under way.

Celtic got the win they needed, but Sutton’s reaction made clear where he feels the bigger concern lies.

The Hoops can work on their finishing. Replacing Johnston would be a much harder task.