‘Sam Johnstone wants to join Leeds after Wolves exit latest’
Wolves goalkeeper Sam Johnstone is keen on a move to Leeds United this summer after enduring a frustrating season at Molineux.
That is according to former Man United and Blackburn chief scout Mick Brown, who remains very well-connected within the game, as he exclusively told Football Insider that the 32-year-old wants to leave Wolves in search of increased playing time.
Since his £10million move to Wolves from Crystal Palace last summer, Johnstone has started just seven Premier League games and has dropped out of the England squad.
This comes after Brown told Football Insider that Leeds are eyeing a move for Johnstone ahead of what is set to be a busy window at Elland Road.
The England international is seen as an upgrade on Illan Meslier, who has recently been axed from Daniel Farke’s starting XI after a string of inconsistent displays.
This comes after Brown told Football Insider that Leeds plan to sell Meslier and replace him with a top-class goalkeeper, with a number of options on their radar.
Sam Johnstone to quit Wolves and make Leeds United move
Football Insider revealed on 26 April that Leeds are set to back Farke in the transfer market in a bid to strengthen his squad for Premier League survival.
Brown, who has a wealth of experience in top-level player recruitment after over a decade at Man United during their most successful period, has insisted Johnstone would be a good fit at Elland Road and would bring stability in goal.
“I think it would be a good move,” he told Football Insider.
“Not just for Leeds, but for Sam as well because he needs to be playing regular football.
“He wants to get back in the England squad because when he was playing regularly for Palace, he was regularly in Gareth Southgate’s squad.
“Since then he’s dropped out because he hasn’t been playing enough for Wolves when you’ve got Dean Henderson and Aaron Ramsdale playing every week.
“So from his perspective, a move away from Wolves might be what he needs.
“He’s still in his early 30s, which is a good age for a goalkeeper.
“He’s a top lad as well, I knew him when he was coming through at United.
“Leeds would be prepared to offer him a role in the team, so it’s a move that makes a lot of sense.“
Junior Firpo to leave Elland Road amid summer overhaul
Amid constant talk about potential incoming deals at Elland Road, there is also an acceptance that some players may have to be let go.
Brown told Football Insider on 28 April that Leeds are prepared to sell Junior Firpo as part of their preparations for the step up to the Premier League.
There are concerns about the 28-year-old’s ability to play at the top level, while clubs in Spain are believed to be keeping an eye on his situation.
This comes after well-connected former Leeds goalkeeper Paul Robinson told Football Insider that Firpo and Brenden Aaronson will be replaced at Elland Road.
For more Leeds United and exclusive news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.