Crystal Palace Close In On First Signing Of The Summer

Crystal Palace are set to complete their first signing of the summer, after having held talks with free agent Sam Johnstone. 

The 29-year-old goalkeeper rejected a new deal at Championship side West Brom, as he favours a move back to the Premier League. 

Several clubs have said to be interested, but Palace now appear the frontrunners to complete the deal in the coming days. 

The England international, who has three caps to his name, is excited by the prospect of playing under Patrick Vieira at Selhurst Park and is said to be keen to return to the country’s top flight as he looks to regain his place in the national side ahead of the World Cup.

It’s understood that Tottenham had been interested in acquiring Johnstone as a homegrown deputy to Hugo Lloris, but instead they opted for Fraser Forster, who was also available on a free transfer.

This transfer would leave Vieira with three senior goalkeepers at his disposal, with Jack Butland and Vincente Guaita also available to the French manager.

Guaita has been Palace’s number one for four seasons now, but the 35-year-old has previously expressed his desire to return to Valencia before he calls his career to an end. 

It’s expected that the Spaniard will depart this summer, leaving space for Johnstone to compete with Butland for the no.1 shirt. 

Johnstone made 141 appearances for the Baggies across four seasons in the west midlands.