Nottingham Forest were reportedly 'in the running' to sign soon-to-be-released West Bromwich Albion goalkeeper Sam Johnstone before Crystal Palace 'jumped to the front of the queue'.
The 29-year-old, who has three England caps to his name, has been linked with a host of top-flight clubs this summer after spending last season in the Championship running down his contract at The Hawthorns. Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur had both been linked with the former Premier League player during last season when the player's intentions became clear.
Spurs have since signed Fraser Forster from Southampton on a free transfer. That also opened up the option of a switch to the south coast, but they are instead set to sign Manchester City 's Republic of Ireland international Gavin Bazunu.
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An Old Trafford reunion, as well as a rumoured move to north London, were both reportedly spurned by the player due to a lack of 'assurances about playing time' according to 90min . That is said to have seen Johnstone explore 'different avenues', which is where the Reds apparently came into the situation.
With Forest in the market for a goalkeeper following the uncertainty surrounding the future of first-choice goalkeeper Brice Samba, they are said to have been 'another club in the running,' which was also reportedly the case for Newcastle United. Regarding the Reds' interest, the online outlet also acknowledges that Forest have 'turned their attentions' to a loan deal for Man United's Dean Henderson.
Johnstone is reportedly instead set to sign for Palace, a sixth club linked with one of the standout free agents still available. Whether Henderson lines up against his former England and Man Utd colleague depends on the future of James Garner, with Forest only able to bring one player from Erik ten Hag's side to the City Ground on loan ahead of next season.
