OPINION
If Aston Villa achieve their aim of promotion back to the Premier League at the end of this campaign, there number one priority this summer is clear.
Goalkeeper Sam Johnstone has been simply fantastic since he first joined the club in January 2017, and must be finally tied down to a permanent deal at Villa Park.
The 24-year-old Manchester United stopper has made 56 appearances for the Villans in that time, keeping 22 clean sheets.
It is clear that Johnstone could make the step up the Premier League level, and if Villa make that step themselves, then they must do all they can to take him with them.
He brings a stability to their defence, and is capable of making some outstanding saves.
Most importantly, he knows the club well, having been there a year now, and during a transition to the Premier League, that will be key.
The club will need as much continuity as possible, especially in defence, and sorting a permanent deal for Johnstone is the basis for that to happen.
The 24-year-old has recently spoken out on his future to the club’s official website, and mentions continuity himself.
“At the moment, though, it’s very much a case of I’ve not spoken to anyone at United and we’ll see in the summer. But I do want to carry on playing as much football as possible.
“I want that continuity. I had it from the end of last season into this season and I don’t want it to stop now. I want it to continue into the next campaign. That’s where I stand on it.”
These comments are promising for Villa as they head into the last few months of the season, and make it clear that Johnstone would want to stay if they are promoted.
The club must recognise that and make a move for key man Johnstone their number one priority this summer, as it would be the perfect way to kick off their return to the Premier League.