Last night, Sam Johnstone was nowhere to be seen as West Brom suffered a 2-0 loss to Preston, sparking plenty of rumours about the Tottenham and Rangers target.
Earlier today, The Athletic offered some clarity on the situation, with just days remaining until Monday’s transfer deadline.
What’s the story?
Well, The Athletic believe Johnstone had an argument with Valérien Ismaël, after he decided that David Button would keep his place as a reward for his displays in the absence of the England international.
Johnstone had been missing as a result of a three-game suspension.
The 28-year-old reacted badly to this, as he feels other regular starters have walked straight back into the starting XI despite their deputies impressing.
A row between the pair saw Johnstone axed from the squad to face Preston completely, instead of the bench role he was meant to fulfil.
According to The Athletic, the former Manchester United glovesman also has a nagging suspicion that Ismaël wants him to leave this month – Johnstone will become a free agent in June.
It comes after TEAMtalk revealed that Tottenham and Rangers are interested in the Preston-born shot-stopper.
Tottenham and Rangers must act now
When a goalkeeper of Johnstone’s quality becomes available for free this summer, there will surely be a massive queue for his signature.
As a result, it would be wise of Tottenham and Rangers to make a move now, in an attempt to beat the rush.
Johnstone is clearly unhappy with Ismaël, and the pair may not see much value in rebuilding their relationship with just six months remaining on the goalkeeper’s contract.
Therefore, a respectable bid from Spurs or Rangers will presumably tempt the Baggies.
After all, they can either sell their No.1 now and make some money, or watch him walk away for nothing in June.
If we were in charge at the Hawthorns, we’d definitely cash in now.
Keep an eye on this saga, with Monday’s deadline fast approaching.
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