Crystal Palace have announced their second piece of incoming transfer business for the summer by signing goalkeeper Sam Johnstone on a free transfer.
The shot-stopper was released at the end of his contract this month by West Bromwich Albion after arriving in 2018 for around £6.5million from Manchester United, going on to make 167 appearances for the Baggies in all competitions. He has signed a four-year deal at Selhurst Park, becoming the first signing for Patrick Vieira in his second campaign as Palace boss.
Johnstone was previously the subject of transfer interest from both West Ham and Spurs, though West Brom rejected a £10million bid from the Hammers last summer, while Tottenham’s pursuit ended thanks to a successful approach for Southampton’s Fraser Forster instead.
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Having sealed his move to south London, Johnstone said: “I’m really excited to be here at Crystal Palace. It’s a great club with fantastic facilities and brilliant supporters – I can’t wait to get started.”
Chairman Steve Parish said of Johnstone’s arrival: “Sam is a player that we have admired for some time, and we are extremely pleased to welcome him to Crystal Palace. His extensive experience at club and international level, alongside his outstanding ability, will add even greater depth to our goalkeeping unit.”
Johnstone’s arrival spells uncertainty for the future of Jack Butland, who has one year left on his current deal at Selhurst Park following his arrival from Stoke City in October 2020. Butland made 15 appearances for the club last season, including playing every minute in the FA Cup as the Eagles made it to Wembley for the semi-finals.
He will likely be demoted to the third choice following the arrival of Johnstone, who is sure to play back-up to Spaniard Vicente Guaita for his first season in south London. Butland could stick around to see out his contract but will likely not be guaranteed many minutes, leaving an exit on the cards for the shot-stopper.
Palace’s attention will now turn to bringing more players through the door for the upcoming season, with Lens midfielder Cheick Doucoure likely to be the next player signed. The Eagles have already announced their retained and released lists for the end of the season, with James McArthur, Nathaniel Clyne, Jordan Ayew and James Tomkins all extending their stays in south London by a year.
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