Joseph Masi says Kyle Bartley and Sam Johnstone could leave in summer
West Brom could lose Kyle Bartley and Sam Johnstone this summer, according to Joseph Masi.
The Express and Star journalist commented on rumours that Burnley have taken an interest in Bartley, and there has also been significant speculation surrounding Johnstone’s future.
Manchester United were linked to their former goalkeeper [The Sun] but Masi believes West Ham or Leeds is a more realistic destination for the 27-year-old – The Daily Mail claimed those two clubs were interested earlier this month.
Appearing on the Baggies Broadcast, Masi said, “I think the three players who could leave this summer are potentially Matheus Pereira, Johnstone and Bartley.
“There are rumours Burnley are sniffing around Bartley.
“I think Johnstone will probably go as well, I think he’ll probably end up at a West Ham or Leeds… £12-£15million is my fee for Johnstone.”
Big leaders
There is no doubting Johnstone’s quality and with only a year remaining on his contract we are almost resigned to him leaving once West Brom go down.
It would be wrong to deny him a move to a top club and foolish to reject a good fee since we risk losing him for nothing next year.
As for Bartley, the interest in him is a bit more surprising.
After all, he has been a key part of the worst defence in the Premier League this season, though that being said he has performed well under Sam Allardyce.
Like Johnstone, he is a strong leader and it would be a big blow to lose two characters like that in the space of one transfer window.
The centre-back signed a one-year deal in February but the opportunity to continue in the Premier League could be difficult for him to turn down.
However, unlike Burnley we would be able to guarantee him regular football with the aim of returning to the top-flight.
Big Sam staying on could be key to keeping Bartley at the club, and we certainly hope he does not make a move after his recent good form.
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