West Ham United have identified £10 million-rated West Brom ace Sam Johnstone as a replacement for Lukasz Fabianski at the London Stadium, as reported by the Express & Star.
With the transfer window creaking open, West Ham’s 36-year-old shot-stopper picked a bad time to commit a high-profile blunder.
Fabianski gifted a goal to Joelinton – of all people – during Saturday’s 3-2 defeat at Newcastle, a loss that damaged their hopes of Champions League qualification, albeit not as dramatically as a certain European Super League.
Heading into the game at St James’ Park, West Ham had been linked with a host of goalkeepers, ranging from Thomas Strakosha to Seny Dieng.
Now the Express & Star has thrown Johnstone’s name into the frame, reporting the West Brom talisman has been lined up to replace Fabianski in David Moyes’ starting XI.
One mistake, however, shouldn’t overshadow all the good work Fabianski has carried out this season. For the most part the veteran Pole has been as reliable as ever in 2020/21, with West Ham’s often rock-solid defence providing the platform for a surprising top-four push.
Then again, having turned 36 last weekend, it does make sense for the Hammers to plan for life after Fabianski.
And Johnstone, at 28, appears to be approaching the peak of his career, shining in a relegation-threatened West Brom team.
The one-time Manchester United youngster, who is also a £10 million target for Tottenham, is desperate to play top-flight football in 2021/22 (Athletic).
“I really like Sam Johnstone, the goalkeeper at West Brom. I think he is ready for one of the top six clubs to go and get him,” England legend Glenn Hoddle told the Standard.
“He has been outstanding. If West Brom can get out of the hole they are in, he could be the one to save them.”
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