Two premier League clubs chasing Championship ‘keeper

Premier League rivals Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur are set to go head to head in a bid to sign championship goalkeeper Sam Johnstone, according to reports. 

The two sides are already locked in a battle to cement a place in the top four to secure qualification for next season’s Champions League, but they now look set to rival one another for the signing of the West Bromwich Albion man.

As per Sky Sports, a number of clubs, including fellow Premier League side Southampton, are considering making an offer for the Englishman.

The 29-year-old, who started his career with United, has refused offers to extend his deal with current employers West Brom, and is expected to leave the club at the end of the season.

Baggies manager Steve Bruce admitted recently that he expected the ‘keeper to leave, believing that he is intent on a return to the Premier League.

Johnstone is keen to return to the top flight

Johnstone was highly thought of in United’s academy, but never made a senior appearance for the Red Devils and left to join West Brom in 2018, after 10 loan spells.

United are preparing for a shake up of their goalkeeping department this season, with David De Gea’s deputy, Dean Henderson, increasingly unhappy with his lack of playing time.

The England international emerged as United’s first choice at the end of last season, but hasn’t made a single appearance in the league this term.

Johnstone has therefore emerged as a potential target to replace Henderson if he does depart, although the pair are likely to be competing against each other for a place in the England team for the World Cup later this year.

Spurs, meanwhile, were close to signing Johnstone in January but a move never materialised, however they are now plotting a move in a bid to provide first choice Hugo Lloris with competition for places.