West Ham expected to rival Tottenham for Sam Johnstone after £12m reveal – pundit
Noel Whelan has tipped West Ham to rival Tottenham for the signing of West Brom goalkeeper Sam Johnstone on a free this summer.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former Leeds striker insisted the Irons need to strengthen between the sticks before next season.
As revealed by Football Insider (20 April), Johnstone has told friends he wants to join Spurs when he leaves West Brom, with the Lilywhites long-term admirers of the 29-year-old.
Meanwhile, The Times (19 April) claim West Ham are considering a move for Nick Pope, who is valued at around £12million by Burnley, should the Clarets go down.
However, Whelan suggested the Irons could rival their London rivals for Johnstone’s capture as well.
Whelan told Football Insider’s Russell Edge: “Pope ticks all the boxes. This is another reason why Burnley need to stay up and a reason Everton need to stay in the Premier League.
“You’ve got two England goalkeepers there that might need to leave the football club if they go down. Pope’s a fantastic goalkeeper, there’s no doubt about that.
“There’s always been speculation over Pope since he went to the club. Other teams looking at him, there aren’t many goalkeepers around with the quality he possesses.
“One of the best in the Premier League, a recognised international as well. But again, you’ve got Sam Johnstone as well. It doesn’t look like West Brom are going to be coming up this year.
“There’s another one that West Ham are going to have their eyes on. It’s no surprise to me they’re looking into British players. That’s where they’ve generally looked, West Ham.
“It’s been successful for them up until this point. I think if you go for Sam Johnstone or Nick Pope, you’re onto a winner there.
“Pope will cost money, Sam Johnstone will too wage-wise. Either way, you’re getting an England international. It is one position I do believe West Ham should be strengthening.”
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