Everton stunned by Celtic’s transfer demand for star as Moyes considers Premier League alternative amid Hoops scouting.

Everton have reportedly been taken aback by Celtic’s valuation of one of their transfer targets, with David Moyes now considering alternatives as the Toffees continue their search for a new right-back.

Celtic have several players attracting interest from clubs elsewhere this summer, and Alistair Johnston is among those whose future has generated speculation.

The Canadian international has returned to form after an injury-hit 2025/26 campaign and has reportedly emerged as a potential target for Premier League clubs.

Kasper Hogh scored three versus Kilmarnock. | Getty Images

However, Celtic are under no pressure to sell cheaply.

Martin O’Neill’s team have a crucial Champions League play-off against LASK approaching later this month, and the Scottish Premiership champions are determined to retain their key players unless a suitable offer arrives.

That stance appears to have caused frustration at Everton, with the Merseyside club reportedly unwilling to meet Celtic’s asking price for Johnston.

Everton baulk at Johnston price

According to transfer journalist Alan Nixon via Patreon, Everton have been assessing a number of options as they attempt to strengthen the right-back position.

Johnston was one of the players under consideration, but Celtic’s valuation has apparently forced the Premier League side to reconsider their plans.

Nixon reports that Everton have “baulked at the price tag” attached to Johnston and have consequently begun exploring other possibilities.

One of those alternatives is Crystal Palace defender Daniel Munoz.

The Colombian has established himself as an important player at Selhurst Park since joining the Eagles around two and a half years ago.

His performances have made him a popular figure at Palace, but there could now be uncertainty over his future because the club are reportedly preparing to sign a long-term replacement.

That development has caught Everton’s attention.

Moyes considering Daniel Munoz

Everton have reportedly asked to be kept informed about Munoz’s situation as Moyes looks to resolve one of the problem positions within his squad.

Nixon claims the Toffees would be interested in making a move for the Colombian if Palace indicate that he could be available.

However, there could be significant competition for Munoz if the Eagles signal that they are prepared to listen to offers.

Palace could potentially receive several approaches during the coming weeks, particularly if clubs believe the defender is available.

For Everton, therefore, the situation could become another complicated transfer pursuit.

The club have also reportedly looked at West Ham United’s Aaron Wan-Bissaka as they continue to assess their options at right-back.

Johnston remains one of the names on their radar, but Celtic’s asking price appears to have made a move more difficult.

Celtic unwilling to sell cheaply

The situation is understandable from Celtic’s perspective.

Johnston remains an important member of O’Neill’s squad, and the club have ambitions of progressing through the Champions League qualifying rounds.

With the LASK play-off approaching, losing an established defender would represent a significant risk.

Celtic have therefore placed a high value on the Canadian, particularly after he returned from injury and rediscovered his form.

The Scottish champions also have little reason to accept an offer that does not reflect their valuation.

Johnston’s performances and international experience make him an attractive proposition for Premier League clubs, but Celtic can afford to wait for the right proposal.

Everton’s apparent reluctance to meet the price means the Toffees may now have to decide whether to increase their offer or pursue another target.

Celtic’s attacking rebuild continues

While Johnston’s future remains a talking point, Celtic have also been busy strengthening their attacking options during the summer.

The Hoops have brought in Camilo Duran and Kasper Hogh as part of their efforts to improve the frontline.

Hogh made an immediate impact on Sunday, scoring a remarkable hat-trick during Celtic’s emphatic 5-1 victory over Kilmarnock.

The Denmark international had endured a difficult debut against Dundee after missing two major opportunities, but he responded in spectacular fashion in his next appearance.

His three goals arrived during a devastating opening spell and gave Celtic supporters an early glimpse of what he could bring to the team.

Hogh delighted with first Celtic goals

Following his hat-trick, Hogh expressed his happiness at finally opening his Celtic account.

The striker began by giving credit to God before admitting that he was delighted with his performance.

He explained that scoring early had helped settle him into the team, particularly after arriving at a new club and adapting to a different environment.

Hogh also praised his teammates for the quality of the chances they created for him.

One of his goals required little more than getting the final touch, while the service from his teammates gave him excellent opportunities to make an impact.

The forward recognised that there is still an adjustment period ahead.

His teammates need time to understand his movement and attacking patterns, just as he needs to learn how they play.

Nevertheless, the early signs are encouraging.

Hogh has big ambitions

Despite his excellent start, Hogh insisted that he intends to remain focused on taking things one step at a time.

The striker acknowledged that he has personal dreams and targets that he wants to achieve, but he is not allowing those ambitions to distract him from the immediate task.

His arrival gives Celtic another attacking option as they prepare for a demanding season that includes domestic competition and the potential of Champions League football.

For O’Neill, the early contribution from Hogh will be particularly encouraging.

Celtic have invested heavily in improving their squad, and the striker’s three-goal performance suggests that the new signing could quickly become a major part of the team’s attacking plans.

Everton’s right-back search continues

While Celtic supporters can celebrate Hogh’s instant impact, Everton must continue working on their recruitment plans.

Johnston remains a potential option, but Celtic’s valuation has apparently made the deal difficult.

Moyes could therefore turn his attention towards Munoz or Wan-Bissaka, with the Toffees keen to find a solution to their right-back problem.

The next few weeks could determine whether Everton return with an improved proposal for Johnston or abandon their pursuit entirely.

For Celtic, the message is clear: their key players will not be allowed to leave cheaply, especially with Champions League qualification at stake.

Everton’s reaction suggests that Johnston’s valuation could ultimately determine whether he remains at Parkhead or gets the Premier League opportunity that has reportedly emerged.