The Aberdeen supporters appear to be all for a move for Celtic winger Mikey Johnston, but only if there is an option to make the deal permanent.
The Daily Record reported last night that Mikey is on a shortlist drafted up by Stephen Glass to add some attacking power to the Dons going forward. It is said that a glowing review from Scott Brown helped push Johnston into the Pittodrie club’s plans.
As of yet, it doesn’t appear as though an official offer has made its way to the club. The report makes it clear that Johnston is simply one of a number of options. So there is no guarantee an approach from Aberdeen will indeed arrive.
Celtic have had previous when it comes to loaning out exciting talents and allowing them to develop before breaking into the Hoops first-team. Ryan Christie spent 18 months in the Granite City back in 2016/17. Kristoffer Ajer, meanwhile, had a similar stint with Kilmarnock.
Johnston could be the next to follow that pathway. And it would likely be a lucrative move for him in terms of first-team minutes too.
Aberdeen fans not interest in short-term Mikey Johnston solution
Of course, the Aberdeen fans have made it clear that another short-term loan between now and the summer shouldn’t even be considered. Indeed, if they’re to sign the Celtic man, they want something more permanent either now or in the summer.
Whether Ange Postecoglou would be happy to insert something like that is questionable. He’s already talked Johnston up consistently in the past, and he was a big part of Celtic’s pre-season campaign before his injury [Scottish Sun].
Johnston has still featured 18 times this season even if only 4 of those outings have been starts [Transfermarkt]. With the SPFL introducing the 5 sub rule from now on, this would also give him more opportunities at Parkhead albeit from the bench.
A move to Aberdeen looks a decent one on paper. But the player is contracted to the Hoops until 2025. Given the potential that exists within him, it would be foolish to let him go too soon. Especially at only 22.
Even so, the Aberdeen fans have made their minds up on how this should go. They appear to want a permanent option if this is to go through. Here’s a look at some of their reaction to the news:
In other news, Matt O’Riley Celtic arrival already looks like a vital move by Ange Postecoglou
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