Southampton have moved on from West Brom goalkeeper Sam Johnstone
West Brom goalkeeper Sam Johnstone is no longer high on the shortlist of transfer targets at Southampton, according to The Athletic.
The website revealed back in September 2021 that England international, 28, was firmly on the Saints radar as they prepare for Fraser Forster to depart next summer.
However, things have changed within the last three months, with Willy Caballero arriving on an initial short-term deal that ends on January 5.
With the contract of the Argentine likely to be extended, it appears that Southampton no longer see a need to sign the Baggies ace.
Dan Sheldon wrote: “The Athletic revealed the club’s interest in the West Bromwich Albion goalkeeper earlier this year, but the situation has moved on since then.”
Good news?
West Brom could lose Johnstone for nothing at the end of 2021-22, but earning promotion could see him sign a new deal if he sees that quality players capable of keeping the team up are signed.
He is not short of suitors right now and will definitely attract if he becomes a free agent at the end of the campaign, but he would not be keen to move to a place where he is only guaranteed to play as second choice.
He has been linked with West Ham and Tottenham Hotspur, but is not likely to walk straight into their starting XI.
The Albion star will have fancy his chances of doing that at Southampton, but it seems that option is no longer on the cards.
It is not good news for Johnstone, but it could work to the advantage of West Brom.
They need to hold on to him beyond January to boost their promotion chances, and if the Saints are moving on, that is great for their chances of keeping him for now.
A lot can still happen between now and the end of next month, though, but holding on to their goalkeeper is of utmost priority, and Valerien Ismael will be hoping that happens.
In other West Brom news, a billionaire-owned club wants to sign Baggies ace as two-man shortlist emerges.
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