West Brom face missing out on Motherwell’s Max Johnston to a Championship rival with the teenager given a tour of Norwich City’s training ground recently.
With Max Aarons expected to leave Carrow Road on the back of a fairly disastrous 2022/23 campaign – the string snapping on this so-called ‘yo yo club’ – a new right-back is likely to be right at the top of David Wagner’s summer wishlist.
The teenager, nominated for the Scottish Football Writers’ Young Player of the Year award, has made a huge impression north of the border at Motherwell. The latest flying full-back to emerge from the Scottish Premiership – after Kieran Tierney, Aaron Hickey, Calvin Ramsey and Josh Doig – Johnston has marked his breakthrough campaign with two goals and an impressive six assists.
Norwich City in pole position for West Brom target Max Johnston
West Brom are interested, according to the Scottish Sun. As are Fulham, Burnley and even Sporting Lisbon; Johnston set to leave Fir Park for free when his contract expires in July.
Norwich appear to be in pole position, however. Anglian publication The Pink ‘Un report that the Middlesbrough-born youngster has already visited Norwich’s Colney training ground.
What’s more, Johnston is reportedly leaning towards a club capable of offering him first-team football, meaning moves to Fulham and Burnley may not hold much appeal.
Conor Roberts and Kenny Tete are firmly established as the first-choice right-backs at Turf Moor and Craven Cottage these days.
“He’s been brilliant,” former Scotland winger Neil McCann tells the BBC of Johnston, who represents his country at U21 level.
“I’ve been really impressed with him since he’s come in. The one thing you’re always judged on in a wide area is your delivery. And I think he’s got fantastic delivery.”
Norwich, like West Brom, missed out on the play-offs following a disappointing end to a frustrating campaign. The Baggies are also hoping to bring in additions further forward, with Rotherham’s Chiedozie Ogbene a reported target.
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