“This is a problem” - West Brom warned about summer Celtic deal after Brendan Rodgers comments | OneFootball

Carlton Palmer has called on West Bromwich Albion to act swiftly to try and get a deal done for Celtic’s Mikey Johnston, amid fears they could be gazumped by other clubs following his fine form.

The winger came through the ranks at Celtic, and he has gone on to make almost 100 appearances for the Glasgow giants. However, he has failed to truly establish himself as a key player.

Therefore, a loan move was arranged in the New Year, with Johnston joining Albion for the remainder of the campaign.

And, it has turned out to be superb business for the Baggies, with Johnston scoring six goals in 10 games, as Carlos Corberan’s men take a firm grip on a play-off spot.

It’s not just an excellent goal return either, as the 24-year-old has scored some sublime individual efforts, and he is a constant threat with his pace and dribbling ability down the flank.

Mikey Johnston transfer latest

Naturally, that has already prompted talk about whether Albion can keep Johnston at The Hawthorns beyond the summer, as the agreement in January did not include an option to buy.

Celtic chief Brendan Rodgers has refused to give much away when quizzed on the future of his player, as he insists they will assess the situation in the summer.

Yet, speaking to FLW, Palmer explained that his former club must do all they can to sign Johnston as soon as possible, as he feels rival interest is inevitable given how the attacker is performing.

“I think this is a problem for West Brom. Johnston has had an unbelievable impact. He’s been exceptional, with six goals and one assist.

“West Brom should be looking to secure a permanent transfer, as he’s taken to the Baggies, to the supporters' hearts and done really well. Obviously, though, there was no option to buy as part of the agreement, and that’s why Celtic have sent him out on loan.

“There’s no doubting Johnston’s ability, but he needed to get out, play regularly, and he’s done that at West Brom in the Championship. Albion are in the play-off positions but it’s going to be difficult for them to secure his services now, because he’s done so well.

“If Celtic don’t keep him, other clubs are going to come in for him.

“So, if I was the new owner, I’d be sitting down with Celtic now and trying to get this deal over the line to keep him at the football club. He’s proved to be a fantastic signing, showing Brendan Rodgers what he can do, and maybe he will be thinking that he can bring him back."

Certainly, if West Brom could make an offer of £3m to £3.5m, it might be a number that suits both clubs. But it’s a deal that the Baggies must be looking to do sooner rather than later.”

Mikey Johnston’s Celtic contract

Ultimately, Celtic are in a good position heading into the summer window, as Johnston is under contract with the Scottish champions until 2026.

So, they will be delighted to see him playing so well in the Championship, as it’s certain to drive the price up.

But, Albion will hope that Johnston’s displays under Corberan, and the fact he seems settled, should give them the edge when it comes to signing him permanently.

This will be one to monitor in the summer, but the immediate priority for Johnston is to help West Brom to the Premier League.