Martin O'Neill has given a Celtic transfer update, following recent speculation about two first-team stars.
Earlier on Friday, reports emerged of midfielder Arne Engels being "close" to a move to West Ham United, while Everton have been linked with the services of Alistair Johnston.
During his pre-Dundee press conference, ahead of the start of the Scottish Premiership season, O'Neill opened up on the Celtic duo. "West Ham, yeah, I think there's definitely truth in that [Engels link]. I think there's been something put in that hasn't remotely made our evaluation for a start," he said.
"And the same with Alistair Johnston; Everton have been in contact. And I'm not sure whether there's been a bid in there for that one, but they've been in contact saying that they would be.
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"In fairness, David Moyes did call me last week and say that there would be contact. But I don't know how far that has progressed, if it has at all. But yeah, that would be disappointing, obviously.
"But I suppose it's to be expected, you know, players who have done well."
On the speculation, O'Neill continued, "It's difficult to stop people if their ambition is to play in a big, big league. West Ham have been relegated, but obviously enhance their financial situation. Those things are difficult.
"Our job is to try and keep them, try and do our best to keep them. If that's not possible, naturally we'll have to try and get replacements in.
"To replace those players would be a difficult task."
