The Manchester United man has been linked with a move to Sunderland and Aston Villa, but Newcastle United should enter the race for the talented stopper.
Newcastle manager Rafa Benitez celebrates
Magpies boss Rafa Benitez is prepared to listen to offers for Karl Darlow this summer, according to a report from the Northern Echo, and if this proves to be true, the Spaniard will need to begin his search for a new goalkeeper sooner rather than later.
With this in mind, Newcastle should consider muscling in on Aston Villa and Sunderland’s interest in Manchester United stopper Sam Johnstone.
The 24-year-old ‘keeper spent the second half of last season on loan at Villa Park, and impressed with the manner in which he commanded his penalty area, especially for someone so young.
Sam Johnstone
Johnstone would be the ideal addition to the Toon’s squad, after proving himself with his consistent levels of performance with the Villans this term.
Despite the successful campaign that Newcastle enjoyed in the Championship this season, that eventually culminated in their promotion to the Premier League, there is clearly a lot of work to be done at St James’ Park, if they are to avoid dropping straight back down.
Sam Johnstone
And the addition of a proven goalkeeper will be vitally important to their hopes of survival. The position between the posts has often been one that’s been overlooked, but teams now seem to be realising just how many points a top-class ‘keeper can save them.
Johnstone is under contract at Old Trafford until the summer of 2018, but the Daily Mail claim that Jose Mourinho will sanction his exit this summer, and the Magpies should not hesitate to bring him to the North East.
Sam Johnstone
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