West Brom star Johnston at centre of messy situation as new medical claim made
West Brom had looked to be on the verge of sanctioning the sale of Mikey Johnston just two weeks ago.
Brazilian club Flamengo had reportedly agreed a £5million deal for the 26-year-old, with Johnston set to fly to Rio de Janeiro to complete the formalities.
However, reports then emerged of a breakdown in the deal, with sources in England claiming fan disgruntlement was the cause, while contradicting stories in Brazil blamed the failure of a medical.
Johnston deal was ‘never agreed’ with Flamengo
West Brom fans had faced mixed emotions over Johnston when reports first emerged of the proposed move.
Johnston had dazzled The Hawthorns faithful upon his initial arrival on loan from Celtic, but following his £3m permanent move, the winger had failed to recapture the same form.
Some were happy with the immediate profit, while some worried about the Baggies’ options from wide areas and were keen to retain the pace and danger of Johnston.
| Mikey Johnston | Championship (2023/24) |
| Appearances | 18 |
| Goals | 7 |
| Assists | 1 |
With the deal now reportedly off, further reports have emerged to explain the situation – described as a “mess”.
According to talkSPORT reporter Alex Crook via X (July 12), rumours of Flamengo even agreeing a fee with West Brom for Johnston are false, with no medical ever taking place.
The Irishman did not commit to any move to the Brazilian side, and is very happy in the West Midlands.
Crook wrote: “Understand claims injury record scuppered Mikey Johnston’s move to Flamengo are false.
“Fee was never agreed with West Brom, therefore no medical took place. Player never committed to anything and is very happy at The Hawthorns. Situation at Flamengo described to me as an internal mess.”
The news will come as some surprise to fans of the Baggies, following heavy reports of the move being on the verge of completion.
There were also fears that the breakdown of the move would affect West Brom’s £4.75m move for Norwegian striker Aune Heggebo, but those worries were quashed when confirmation of the signing was announced on Monday (July 7).
Johnston stay will please Mason
Whilst the reported funds made available by Johnston’s move would have given Mason further wiggle room for incomings, the Englishman will ultimately be pleased to keep the winger.
Johnston offers qualities that are lacking elsewhere in the West Brom squad, and replacing them would have made for a difficult task.
Mason will hope to transform the Baggies team into a more-attacking outfit, and the 26-year-old will certainly play a part in that.
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