Pundit backs Tottenham to use obscure method to land ‘unreal’ target
Former keeper Paddy Kenny thinks Tottenham could get creative in their pursuit of West Brom’s Sam Johnstone.
The 28-year-old was a top target during the summer transfer window. Tottenham were expected to sign him as Hugo Lloris’ long-term replacement in goal.
A bid never materialised and new chief Fabio Paratici opted to sign Pierluigi Gollini from Atalanta instead.
The Italian has since appeared five times in all competitions but is yet to make his Premier League debut.
Recent reports have suggested that Tottenham have returned for Johnstone. They could sign him in a cut-price deal as his West Brom contract expires at the end of the season.
When asked about the situation, Kenny suggested that Spurs’ England stars could put in a good word to speed up the move.
He told Football Insider: “I reckon he would be a perfect replacement for Lloris.
“Sam has been unreal at West Brom. I thought he was fantastic last season for a team that got relegated.
“He can continue his form now. He is involved with the England setup as well. The Spurs players might have words with him there and try and get it done next week.
“He is from the Man United academy so he has got a brilliant pedigree. So he would be a top signing and a big loss for West Brom.
“He’s a bit older than some of the other options and he has more experience. So I think he would be a bargain.”
West Brom officials were hoping the England international would pen a new contract. Discussions began earlier this season, only for Johnstone to postpone them.
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It’s thought that he wants to focus on getting the Baggies back into the top flight.
However, the delay could play into the hands of Tottenham. It gives West Brom less time to agree on a salary and contract length with the player.
If negotiations break down then Nuno Espirito Santo’s team will be on hand to snap Johnstone up for free.
Former Tottenham man finds new club
Serge Aurier has found himself a new club after his Tottenham contract was terminated by mutual consent.
The right-back left north London on August 31, following a number of failed attempts to secure a transfer.
He will now link up with former Arsenal boss Unai Emery at Villarreal. He has penned a one-year deal which includes the option of two more years.
Villarreal won the Europa League last season, beating Manchester United on penalties in the final.
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