West Ham are plotting to swoop for Manchester United goalkeeper Sam Johnstone this summer in a bid to fix their problems between the sticks, according to the Guardian.
The newspaper claim on their website that the Hammers are embarking on a massive transfer hunt this summer as they look to strengthen a number of positions, and that a new shot stopper is high on the list with Joe Hart’s loan deal expiry leaving just Adrian as a senior keeper.
It is stated that a move for United’s 6’3″ (source: Transfermarkt) colossus of a goalkeeper Johnstone is being considered after his impressive performances for Aston Villa, falling at the last hurdle in their hopes for promotion with a play off final defeat to Fulham.
Good move for West Ham?
The Irons are certainly in need of a new man between the posts with it being a real problem position, and Johnstone would certainly be an imposing presence at the back.
He was consistent throughout Aston Villa’s Championship campaign, missing just one match and keeping 22 clean sheets in 48 games across all competitions, but with the Villans failing to make the return to the Premier League, it looks likely he will move to pastures new.
At 25, he still has a lot of learning to do as a goalkeeper and a distinct lack of Premier League experience might count against him, but he should be worthy competition for Adrian at the London Stadium.
This is Futbol rating: 7.5/10
Likely to happen?
Only if there are no other sides chasing his capture.
Manchester United do not seem likely to want to keep a hold of him with David De Gea and Sergio Romero at their disposal and with West Ham desperately needing a goalkeeper, it seems a perfect match.
If the Hammers really want him, they should have no trouble in snapping up his signature.
This is Futbol rating: 8/10