Tottenham Hotspur are set to win the race to sign West Bromwich Albion goalkeeper Sam Johnstone, with United opting to not enter the race to sign the former Carrington academy star, according to reports.
Johnstone spent seven years at United and was always seen as an exciting prospect but his rise through the ranks collided with David de Gea’s tremendous form, which eventually meant that a departure was inevitable.
The 29-year-old made a name for himself in the Premier League last season, with several Premier League sides said to have been interested following the Baggies’ relegation in 2021. He ended up staying at West Brom for another year but this summer, he is set to leave the Midlands club on a free transfer.
According to The Mirror, Tottenham are set to win the race to sign the England international after United made the decision to not pursue the signing.
As per the report, United were interested in bringing Johnstone back to Old Trafford but are happy with their options in that position. David de Gea is still under contract for another year, Dean Henderson signed a new deal last season and Tom Heaton was brought in last summer. Lee Grant will, however, leave this summer.
Johnstone is said to prefer to be in contention for first-team action and that is unlikely at United, with De Gea and Henderson already battling it out for the number one spot.
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SN’s verdict…
Erik ten Hag, the incoming manager this summer, has quite the job on his hands and he’s set to oversee a very busy summer in the transfer market.
Wholesale changes to the squad are expected but the goalkeeper position is the least of his worries – at least for this summer. As mentioned above, De Gea has a year left on his contract and is likely to win yet another Player of the Year award this season.
There are bigger question marks over Henderson’s future. The former Sheffield United star has endured a torrid campaign, featuring just three times in all competitions.
His potential exit could free up a spot but Tom Heaton would be keen to make that his own, having sealed a return to his boyhood club last year.
