Aston Villa expecting Sam Johnstone to stay in January
Villa are confident they will not lose goalkeeper Sam Johnstone during the January transfer window.
Reports this week had claimed the £5million-rated shot-stopper could be recalled by parent club Manchester United ahead of a permanent move, with several clubs – including Albion – thought to be tracking his progress.
But Villa believe it is unlikely United would use such an option and expect to have the 24-year-old’s services for the remainder of the campaign.
Johnstone, who also spent the second half of last season on loan at Villa, has earned rave reviews for his performances in the Championship.
He has been an ever-present in the league, at this stage, is thought to favour first-team football over a move to the Premier League.
Villa are themselves keen to secure a permanent deal for Johnstone and boss Steve Bruce plans to speak with Old Trafford counterpart Jose Mourinho in the coming weeks.
Securing a deal in January could prove tricky, however, due to Villa’s concerns over Financial FairPlay.
United are expected to trigger a one-year extension in the keeper’s contract to ensure they protect the value of any future sale.
