The Manchester Evening News is reporting Aston Villa will attempt a permanent transfer of number one goalkeeper Sam Johnstone in January. The on-loan Manchester United ‘keeper’s deal runs through June 2018 with the Red Devils.
To no one’s true surprise, Aston Villa want Sam Johnstone permanently. Manager Steve Bruce is quoted by the paper as saying a permanent transfer is the best solution for all parties.
Johnstone’s contract with United expires on the final day of May, 2018. Thereafter, the Preston-born ‘keeper is free to join any club of his choosing. Following a successful ten months at Villa Park, Bruce is eager to push for a permanent deal with José Mourinho and Man. United executives.
With a plethora of options in net, including: David de Gea, Sergio Romero, and Joel Pereira, Johnstone is at-best third choice at Manchester United. However, the club would loathe to allow a free transfer for someone of Sam’s talent.
At 24 years of age, Johnstone is eligible to sign a pre-contract with other clubs beginning January 1. Though it’s unlikely the player ditches Aston Villa and Manchester United, the threat of possibility might push both sides to the negotiating table.
Villa Verdict:
If Sam Johnstone is Steve Bruce’s number one goalkeeper through and through, it is in the club’s best interest for a permanent January move.
He has been nothing but resilient for the claret and blues this year – leading the team to five league clean sheets running in late September. Johnstone is a proven, solid Championship goalkeeper with the ceiling for a bit more. A token £1-2 million fee insures against Johnstone electing to join a different club next summer. Likewise, Manchester United profit while they clear a player off the books.