West Brom need to thrash out deal for ‘exceptional’ Mikey Johnston as problem emerges
West Brom need to reach a permanent agreement for Celtic loanee Mikey Johnston as his recent form could cause a “problem”, according to Carlton Palmer.
Speaking to Football League World on Friday (22 March), the pundit said the Republic of Ireland international has been “exceptional” and it’s going to be difficult for the Baggies to secure a permanent transfer for him due to there not being an option-to-buy clause in the deal.
He added that other clubs are going to come in for the 24-year-old winger if the Hoops decide not to keep him as he urged new Albion owner Shilen Patel to sit down with the Glasgow club to try and get a deal over the line at The Hawthorns.
“I think this is a problem for West Brom,” said Palmer. “Johnston has had an unbelievable impact. He’s been exceptional, with six goals and one assist. West Brom should be looking to secure a permanent transfer, as he’s taken to the Baggies, to the supporters’ hearts and done really well.
“Obviously, though, there was no option to buy as part of the agreement, and that’s why Celtic have sent him out on loan. There’s no doubting Johnston’s ability, but he needed to get out, play regularly, and he’s done that at West Brom in the Championship.
“Albion are in the play-off positions but it’s going to be difficult for them to secure his services now, because he’s done so well. If Celtic don’t keep him, other clubs are going to come in for him.
“So, if I was the new owner, I’d be sitting down with Celtic now and trying to get this deal over the line to keep him at the football club. He’s proved to be a fantastic signing, showing Brendan Rodgers what he can do, and maybe he will be thinking that he can bring him back.”
Could West Brom sign Mikey Johnston permanently from Celtic?
There is no doubt that West Brom would be interested in signing Johnston on a permanent deal after he’s been in incredible form since signing on loan in the January transfer window.
The winger has registered six goals and one assist in just 10 appearances as he looks to help the Baggies challenge for promotion.
He’s added a different dimension to Carlos Corberan’s side and his form has probably caught the eye of some interested parties, including plenty back in Glasgow.
Albion will feel that they have a decent chance of bringing him in permanently if Celtic are interested in doing a deal, though, as he will appreciate the opportunity he’s been given at The Hawthorns.
It could largely depend on which division they are playing in next season and what kind of money the Hoops will be looking for to sanction a move in the summer.
In other West Brom news, Craig Dawson has aimed a dig at Albion after what happened against Wolves.
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