Johnston offers the profile Everton appear to be seeking: an experienced full-back capable of defending in a Premier League back four while also providing width in possession. His willingness to make overlapping runs would give Everton a more natural outlet on the right than relying on players operating outside their usual positions.
The report says Johnston has made 122 appearances for Celtic since joining from CF Montreal in January 2023, while his contract runs until 2029. Those details help explain why Celtic are unlikely to welcome a low-cost departure.
At 27, Johnston would also bring immediate senior experience rather than represent a purely developmental signing.
Everton’s need has been sharpened by Seamus Coleman ending his playing career and Nathan Patterson reportedly expected to leave. The report also noted Merlin Rohl being used at right-back during pre-season, with Jake O’Brien returning to centre-back.
That situation leaves Moyes balancing short-term reliability with squad planning. A specialist signing would reduce the need for makeshift solutions and give Everton a clearer structure on the flank.
Fulham are reportedly interested in Johnston, creating potential competition if Everton make a formal approach. Other right-backs linked with Everton include Raoul Bellanova, Guela Doue, Djed Spence, Ben White and Aaron Wan-Bissaka, although the strength of those links varies.
A move for Brooke Norton-Cuffy now appears unlikely, according to the report, leaving Johnston among the more established options under consideration.
Everton’s next pre-season fixtures should offer further clues about Moyes’ preferred solution, with Bolton Wanderers reportedly next before the Premier League opener against Crystal Palace on 22 August. The right-back search could become one of the defining transfer storylines of the remainder of the window.