Manchester United may not sanction the ‘keeper’s permanent switch to Aston Villa, leaving Steve Bruce in need of options.
After Pierluigi Gollini proved to be more Taibi than Buffon, you could perhaps forgive Aston Villa fans for showing a lack of patience towards Sam Johnstone – especially after the Manchester United loanee made a number of high profile errors soon after arriving in January.
Yet, while young Italian shot-stopper Gollini failed to address those worrying jitters, his replacement between the sticks has grown in confidence by the week. So much so that Steve Bruce is determined to retain him at Villa Park, the Birmingham Mail reports.
“I hope to have a conversation with Mr Mourinho in the next week or so. We hope to keep him,” Bruce stated. “We’ll obviously respect Jose and what his wishes are. I think Sam would like to stay because he’s enjoyed playing and he’s got better.”
According to The Telegraph, Johnstone, who has not played a senior game for Manchester United, could cost just £3 million in the summer. Not bad for a goalkeeper who has been beaten just once in his last seven games.
Nonetheless, the Birmingham Mail report that the ambitious shot-stopper still has hopes of making an impression at Old Trafford – casting doubt over a long-term future in Villa colours.
Therefore, it makes sense for Villa to at least draw up a few contingency plans. And although Boaz Myhill did not make a single senior appearance for his maiden club between 2000 and 2003, his continued lack of action at Midlands rivals West Brom means it may be the ideal time to return to Villa Park.
The 34-year-old has played just three times in all competitions this season thanks to the form of Ben Foster but, when he has been given the chance, he has usually grasped it with both hands. Furthermore, with Championship experience from his time at Hull City, Myhill’s know-how could prove invaluable.
Villa would prefer to keep Johnstone at the club. But Myhill could prove an astute alternative if required.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
