According to Alan Nixon, Crystal Palace have signed Sam Johnstone on a four-year contract, after the 29-year-old rejected Tottenham.
What’s the story?
Well, it was said that the England international turned down a move to Spurs a few weeks ago.
Antonio Conte eventually signed Fraser Forster instead, with Johnstone believed to want regular playing time at his next club, something he was unlikely to get with Hugo Lloris in north London.
Now, the shot-stopper has joined Crystal Palace, according to Nixon.
The respected journalist revealed the news on Twitter initially, before linking to his Patreon where he expanded on his initial claim to detail the length of Johnstone’s contract.
Now, the Manchester United academy graduate will compete with Vicente Guaita and Jack Butland for the No.1 shirt at Selhurst Park.
However, in light of Johnstone wanting regular playing time, we wouldn’t be surprised if Patrick Vieira has promised him a starting role in between the sticks.
The news comes after Johnstone made 36 appearances in the Championship with West Brom last season, where he impressively kept 15 clean sheets and conceded just 33 goals – less than one a game.
Sam Johnstone is a great signing for Crystal Palace
After last summer’s heroics, Dougie Freedman has struck again.
Crystal Palace’s Director of Football oversaw bargain deals for Michael Olise, Joachim Andersen and Marc Guéhi in 2021, and with Johnstone now signed on a free, the Scot has once again worked his magic.
In our view, the south Londoners are lucky to have him.
Johnstone is an England international, and it was no surprise to hear that Tottenham – and also West Ham – were interested in his talents.
Newcastle and Nottingham Forest also wanted to sign the Preston-born glovesman.
Unfortunately for them, Crystal Palace have won the race, and what a signing they’ve made.
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