Rangers now face a rather daunting battle with Manchester United for the signing of West Bromwich Albion goalkeeper Sam Johnstone.
That’s according to a report from 90Min, who claim that Johnstone is attracting major interest ahead of the summer transfer window.
That’s no great surprise given that Johnstone is out of contract this summer and looks set to leave the Baggies on a free transfer.
Rangers want to take Johnstone to Ibrox, seemingly eyeing him up as a free signing with Allan McGregor out of contract and into his 40’s.
The report notes that West Ham United, Crystal Palace and Southampton are also keen on Johnstone – but now there is major competition.
Manchester United are thought to be interested in signing Johnstone as backup for David De Gea.
United are allegedly willing to let Dean Henderson leave the club and would fancy signing Johnstone to replace him.
This would be an emotional move for Johnstone. Whilst born in Preston, Johnstone came up through the United ranks.
After a series of loan moves, Johnstone was sold to West Brom in 2018 and hasn’t looked back since.
An England international described as ‘top quality’ by Sam Allardyce, Johnstone has racked up over 150 appearances for West Brom.
There is still hope for Rangers though. Johnstone has been a first-choice stopper for years now, and heading to United would leave him playing second fiddle to De Gea.
Rangers can offer Johnstone first-team football if McGregor moves on, playing in Europe and challenging for titles in the process.
Having been through life at United once before and failed to break through, going back to Old Trafford to sit on the bench may be a waste of Johnstone’s talent.
That’s something for the goalkeeper to consider, with Rangers offering a very legitimate alternative ahead of the summer window.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
