Mikey Johnston saga ‘ends in best way’ after West Brom transfer failure – Exclusive
West Brom have already lost a host of players this summer, with the majority of those leaving after their contracts expired.
As for signings, Ryan Mason has several new players within his ranks as the Baggies prepare for the Championship season.
Nat Phillips was the first player through the West Brom door and has been followed by Aune Heggebo and George Campbell.
Mikey Johnston was involved in one of the stories of the summer, having nearly left The Hawthorns for Brazil.
Johnston situation best for West Brom and Flamengo
Johnston was set to sign for Flamengo, with a £5million deal reportedly close to going through.
However, the Irishman’s move to Brazil collapsed amid reports that Flamengo supporters were unhappy with signing the West Brom man.
Now, football finance expert Dan Plumley – speaking exclusively to West Brom News – has weighed in on the deal.
“That kind of level in the Championship, where you look at those non-parachute payment clubs, and those ones that haven’t tended to sell in recent years for particularly big fees,” he said
“You get a lot of free moves and loans and things like that, and we’ve seen other transfers in the Championship this year in this window around those kinds of figures.
“For clubs that don’t necessarily tend to sell to that value, in the context of where West Brom are at the minute financially and where they are in that league, then £5million for a player would be considered a good sale.
“With this one, it seems that the fans were particularly unhappy about it as well. Therefore, they might have saved face, and whilst the money might have been good, it might be a better way for this to end all ends up.”
Johnston can have key role under Mason
While the 26-year-old seemed set to depart The Hawthorns, deals falling through are part of football.
It seems that the Republic of Ireland international has been unfazed by the situation and is now ready to feature under Mason.
Indeed, Johnston notched eight goal contributions last season. Therefore, he could be set to play a key role for his new boss.
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