Nottingham Forest were very keen to sign Sam Johnstone on a free transfer this summer, although the player now looks set to sign for Crystal Palace.
The Reds are also closing in on the signing of a new goalkeeper. Dean Henderson is set to arrive from Manchester United but 90Min claims that Forest eyed Johnstone.
Johnstone, 29, has departed West Brom following four years at the club. Now, he looks set to join Palace and bolster their goalkeeping ranks.
The man with three England caps will hope to revive his career. He played 36 times last season but clearly had his eyes on a move back to the Premier League.
Several clubs were linked with Johnstone. The article claims that Tottenham were keen before they signed Fraser Forster, whilst Southampton also had a look.
Johnstone has been considered on the cusp of the England setup for some time. Dropping into the Championship with West Brom has bumped him down the pecking order and he will hope to force himself into contention ahead of the World Cup.
Perhaps crucially though, Johnstone is back in the Premier League. He will now compete for the gloves with Vicente Guaita and Jack Butland, although the latter could be moved on.
Forest fans will likely feel they are getting a better deal with Henderson. Although Johnstone is available for free, at 29 he will be approaching the twilight of his career soon.
Forest wanted Johnstone and he’d have been a useful freebie
This would have been a decent addition. Just because Forest are back in the Premier League now, it doesn’t mean that every signing has to be for big money.
Johnstone has proven himself as one of England’s top goalies over the years. As a result, it’s no surprise that clubs were queuing up to take him.
Forest will definitely be in the market for a new goalkeeper. If Brice Samba and Ethan Horvath both decide that they want to leave, the Reds will look for a backup to Henderson.
Johnstone was unlikely to anywhere and not play. Now, Forest will watch with intrigue as the experienced stopper looks to add to his 37 Premier League appearances.