Leicester City and Stoke City are considering a move for Wolverhampton Wanderers’ wantaway goalkeeper Sam Johnstone, SportsBoom reports.
The 32-year-old England international is pushing for an exit from Molineux this summer in search of regular first-team football. Despite interest from all three newly promoted Premier League sides – Leeds United, Burnley and Sunderland – his hopes of remaining in the top flight appear to be fading just a year after his £10 million move from Crystal Palace.
Championship return on the cards
Johnstone is open to dropping into the Championship if it guarantees him the number one role. Burnley boss Scott Parker had identified him as a potential replacement for James Trafford following his return to Manchester City, but the Clarets instead moved for Newcastle United’s Martin Dubravka. Sunderland also opted against a deal, securing 22-year-old Dutch keeper Robin Roefs instead.
Since joining Wolves last summer, Johnstone has found himself behind Portugal’s Jose Sa in the pecking order, managing only seven Premier League appearances and featuring exclusively in the FA Cup after Christmas.
Potential lifeline from promotion hopefuls
Leicester and Stoke are both weighing up moves as they look to strengthen ahead of their respective Championship campaigns. At Stoke, the situation around current first-choice Viktor Johansson could prompt action, with the Swedish stopper attracting Premier League interest from West Ham.
Mark Robins is understood to be ready to move for Johnstone should Johansson depart, adding valuable experience to the Potters’ promotion push. Wolves, meanwhile, are believed to be resigned to making a loss on the fee they paid just 12 months ago.
Proven at Championship level
Johnstone boasts an impressive second-tier pedigree. He helped West Bromwich Albion to promotion in the 2019/20 season, earning both the club’s Player of the Year and Players’ Player of the Year awards the following campaign. His leadership, shot-stopping ability and experience – which includes four senior England caps – would make him a significant asset for any Championship side aiming for a return to the Premier League.
Writer’s View
For Leicester and Stoke, the appeal of Johnstone is obvious. He offers proven quality, a track record of success at this level and the mentality of a promotion winner. If he is prepared to commit to the Championship for regular football, either club could secure one of the division’s top goalkeepers.
The deciding factor may be how quickly Wolves are willing to sanction his exit – and whether either suitor makes the first decisive move before the transfer window closes.
