Aston Villa were reportedly amongst the large cluster of Championship sides keen on signing Dean Henderson this summer.
Following Aston Villa’s inability to get promoted out of the Championship, one of Steve Bruce’s toughest tasks is going to be replacing Sam Johnstone this summer with the Manchester United-owned goalkeeper returning to his parent club.
After a difficult start to his first spell, Johnstone established himself as a key part of the Villans’ side and arguably proved himself to be one of the most reliable stoppers in the Championship last season.
Had they been promoted, it would have surprised few if Bruce had looked to bring Johnstone back for a third spell – potentially, on a permanent basis – but with the club facing another year in the second tier, they had to make alternative plans.
One of their options appeared to be a potential loan move for Johnstone’s United teammate, with the Daily Mirror reporting earlier this month that Villa were keen on a loan deal for Dean Henderson after he signed a new contract at Old Trafford.
However, little more than a week later and Henderson is now committed to their Championship rivals Sheffield United for the following season. And while it is not clear how serious Villa’s interest became, perhaps it would be fair to suggest that Bruce may rue not bringing the 21-year-old in for next year.
Henderson was superb during Shrewsbury’s run to the League One play-off final last season and the Blades must be feeling that they have pulled off an excellent deal – especially given how many of their rivals were reportedly interested.
And given that Villa now do not have a clear number one waiting in the wings in their current ranks, Bruce may perhaps be kicking himself that another of their rivals have been the ones to sign Henderson for next season.
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