LONDON, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 9: Sam Johnstone of Crystal Palace during the Premier League match between Crystal Palace and Liverpool FC at Selhurst Park on December 9, 2023 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Sebastian Frej/MB Media/Getty Images)
Well – according to The Athletic – Nuno Espirito Santo’s side have made an approach to sign the England international on loan, with an obligation to buy the glovesman on a permanent basis this summer.
However, Crystal Palace have rejected the offer.
Furthermore, The Athletic add that Johnstone is highly likely to stay at Selhurst Park this month, despite slipping behind Dean Henderson in the pecking order under Roy Hodgson.
The £43,000-a-week man started the season as No.1 for Crystal Palace, although a calf injury in the 2-1 defeat to Liverpool opened the door for Henderson to secure a starting role, following his £20m summer move from Manchester United.
If Crystal Palace were to sanction a departure for Johnstone this month, it would leave Henderson and Remi Matthews as Hodgson’s only senior goalkeeping options.
Joe Whitworth – who made two Premier League appearances last season – is also part of the goalkeeping union at Crystal Palace.
