Ange Postecoglou has reportedly shown interest in the Canadian right-back, Alistair Johnston, although the Montreal boss denies he plans to meet with clubs and discuss potential moves.

Johnston is currently in Qatar with the Canadian team, playing in the World Cup. Unfortunately, Johnston’s side was soundly defeated 1-0 at the hands of Belgium. In any case, reports started arising after the match that Ange Postecoglou was looking at the full-back, and assessing whether it was worth pursuing a possible transfer. Furthermore, with rumours accumulating around the current Celtic full-back, Josip Juranovic’s possible departure from the club come the January transfer window.

Canada’s defender #02 Alistair Johnston fights for the ball with Belgium’s forward #10 Eden Hazard during the Qatar 2022 World Cup Group F football match between Belgium and Canada at the Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium in Al-Rayyan, west of Doha on November 23, 2022. (Photo by JACK GUEZ/AFP via Getty Images)

The Celtic gaffer has already admitted that he is keeping an eye on some players this World Cup as he looks to further strengthen the Celtic squad. Ange also admitted that he already has a couple of deals lined up that may take place in the near future.

The Montreal boss, Gabriel Gervais has made his way to Qatar with the sporting director, Olivier Renard to support the Canadian team and keep a watchful eye over his players. He has denied that any meetings have taken place revolving around possible transfers and that his intentions for being in Qatar remain solely supportive.

Josip Juranovic of Croatia runs with the ball during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Group F match between Morocco and Croatia at Al Bayt Stadium on November 23, 2022 in Al Khor, Qatar. (Photo by Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images)

Speaking to the Journal de Montreal, the Montreal chief said…

“We wanted to come and encourage our six players who are here and support Canada. I saw the six players, they worked so hard all year to be able to get into the team, credit goes to them. I have a different pride because for each player here. There are almost six different projects.”

“Sam (Piette) was already on the national team, Alistair Johnston continued to grow to be a vital player, Kamal Miller wasn’t playing much in Orlando and he became a national team starter. Ismaël Koné comes from the streets of Montreal, there is still a year from here.”

The Possible departure of Juranovic would leave Celtic with the only real option of Anthony Ralston to play at right-back. While being extremely competent, having only one option leaves the Celtic squad vulnerable, so it is a good move to weigh up potential transfers.