Sporting Lisbon become FIFTH European side to put Max Johnston ‘on their radar’ as Motherwell braced for transfer battle
MAX JOHNSTON could soon follow in Ryan Gauld’s footsteps.
Almost ten years after the player dubbed Scotland’s Mini Messi left DundeeUnited The same club is said to be interested in Sporting Lisbon mother well Star.
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son of the former hearts, Kilmarock And ranger Winger Allan, Johnston has popped up at Fir Park for the second half of the season.
He spent the first six months of the current season on loan Cove Rangerwhere he provided three assists from right-back before being recalled during the winter transfer window.
The 19-year-old has been a hit for the Steelmen since returning to Lanarkshire, with two goals and another three assists.
The right-back has also worked his way into the Scotland Under-21 squad.
With such impressive performances, transfer interest has come from far and wide.
We told you last month how London-based Premier League duo Fulham and Crystal Palace did it joined the race for Johnston
That was after it was revealed Brighton were keen on the youngster and that Benfica, PSV, Turin and Royal Antwerp spotted him.
A quarter of the second division south of the border have also been interested in Johnston, one of whom could play in the top flight next season.
Well, after that daily recordSporting have sent scouts to watch Johnston in action and are looking to discuss a move to Lisbon this summer with their representatives.
Johnston’s current deal with Motherwell expires at the end of the season and he has been offered a new deal, with boss Stuart Kettlewell keen on keeping the starlet on for a while longer.
The Fir Park side would be due development compensation if he were to leave, which would total around £300,000.
In the meantime, Nathan Patterson was chosen as supporters by Everton boss Sean Dyche hailed his “masterclass” of a display against Brighton.
The 22-year-old Scotland star made his first start in four months and helped the Toffees on their way to a MASSIVE 5-1 win over the Seagulls as they attempted to avoid relegation for the first time in their history.
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