ALLAN JOHNSTON says he is hopeful that teenage starlet PJ Crossan will turn down interest from elsewhere to remain at East End.

The 17-year-old, who made his first team debut in a 6-1 rout of Stranraer in February, is out of contract and although the Pars have offered him a new deal, Celtic are believed to be interested in taking him to Glasgow.

English Championship clubs Nottingham Forest and Brighton and Hove Albion have also been credited with an interest in the Scotland under-17 player, who memorably set up the third goal for Faissal El Bakhtaoui as Dunfermline wrapped up the League One title against Brechin City in March.

Johnston sees the striker as having a big future and told Press Sport: “I think there is a bit of interest and obviously he’s not signed his contract yet, so we’re still waiting to find out what’s going to happen and whether it’s going to progress any further. We’re keen to keep PJ because he’s a player who’s made a massive improvement this year and will be involved in the first team next year if he stays but, once again, it’s up to the player and his agent to decide what’s best for him.

“There would be compensation but we’re keen to keep him rather than sell our young players. We’ll just have to wait and see.”

Meanwhile the question over whether Faissal El Bakhtaoui will extend his Pars stay or agree a move elsewhere remains unanswered, with Johnston stating there had been “no change” to the situation.

After adding Hearts striker Gavin Reilly to his squad, the Athletic boss is still on the hunt for forwards and continued: “We brought in Nat (Wedderburn), Lee Ashcroft and Gav, who have all played in the Premier League, alongside the players who did really well last year so we’re starting to build a good squad. We’re still a couple of players short but we’re definitely getting there.

“It’s always difficult to get these guys because there’s a lot of competition for players like Gavin and then you’ve got guys like Faiss who we’re obviously desperate to keep. If we can get Faiss as well, and we’ve got Moff, then we’re starting to get a real quality forward line.

“There’s still no change and he is waiting to see what his options are. With players of Faiss’ ability, teams are going to be looking at him but he knows we’re going to be stepping up to the Championship and I think this is the right place for him. I think he’ll make a massive impact again.

“We need a couple more strikers and then there might be one more. But our priority just now is getting in at least one more striker. We’re looking to improve the team and hopefully get the right players who will compliment the way we play. I think we’ve done that so far.”