Sources: West Ham leapfrog Tottenham to become favourites to sign Johnstone
West Ham have leapfrogged Tottenham to lead the race to sign West Brom goalkeeper Sam Johnstone, Football Insider understands.
The 28-year-old is a wanted man ahead of the summer and is almost certain to leave the Hawthorns after the Baggies' relegation was confirmed last weekend.
A recruitment source has told Football Insider West Ham are the new favourites to sign the shot-stopper and are readying a bid.
This site revealed earlier this week that the Hammers were set to launch enquiries for the in-demand keeper.
ESPN claimed Tottenham were leading the hunt for Johnstone amid doubts over Hugo Lloris' future in north London.
However, it is understood West Ham now front the queue of clubs wanting to sign the former Manchester United man.
Football Insider columnist and former England number one Paul Robinson heralded Johnstone for his “world-class” and “phenomenal” performances this term.
The Baggies star has made more saves (148) than any other goalkeeper in England's top-flight this season [Whoscored].
He has missed just one of West Brom's 35 league fixtures this season and has kept six clean sheets.
West Ham's interest comes as David Moyes looks to add another goalkeeper to his ranks this summer.
Number one Lukasz Fabianski signed a one-year contract extension earlier this season to keep him tied down until the end of next season.
The 36-year-old has missed just two league games through injury this term.
However, the Irons want better cover and competition for the Poland international.
Moyes currently has Darren Randolph and David Martin as back up, although the latter is out of contract this summer.