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Chris Sutton believes Celtic should be looking for at least £25million if they are to consider selling Alistair Johnston this summer. Writing in the Daily Record, Sutton said he had heard that the Premier League side had stepped back because they were not prepared to meet Celtic’s asking price. The former Hoops striker believes Celtic are right to hold firm, especially with Johnston still tied to the club until 2029. “For me, Johnston is worth a minimum of £25million,” Sutton said. Johnston has become a major part of the Celtic side since joining from CF Montreal and has developed his game at both ends of the pitch. He has also become one of the more experienced players in the team, and Sutton believes Celtic look stronger when he is involved. “They are a completely different team with Johnston in it,” he said. “There is more experience and more control defensively. On that right-hand side, they carry far more of a threat.” The timing of any possible move would also be a concern for Celtic. Martin O’Neill’s side are preparing for their Champions League play-off against LASK later this month, with a place in the league phase on the line. Sutton does not want Celtic to weaken the squad before those games, particularly after Nicolas Kühn was sold before last season’s qualifier against Kairat Almaty without a suitable replacement being brought in. He also questioned the lower figures being mentioned around Johnston, with some reports suggesting a fee of around £14million. Sutton pointed to Kieran Tierney’s £25million move to Arsenal as an example, while Johnston’s long contract and performances for Canada at the World Cup also leave Celtic in a strong position. Replacing him would not be straightforward either. Anthony Ralston and Colby Donovan are options on the right side of defence, but Sutton does not believe Celtic currently have another player who can offer the same level as Johnston. “Celtic cannot replace him at the same level right now,” he said. With important European games coming up and Celtic still trying to strengthen other areas of the squad, Sutton believes the club should only consider a Johnston sale if an offer arrives that matches what they believe he is worth.