Sam Johnstone to sign for Crystal Palace

Sam Johnstone will move to Crystal Palace on a free transfer tomorrow, having signed a contract with the Eagles this afternoon. Johnstone will leave West Bromwich Albion at the expiry of his contract on Friday, after WBA were unable to persuade the goalkeeper to stay with the club.

The 29-year-old is ready to force his way back into England's national squad with a move back to the Premier League, and is hopeful that first-team opportunities that are likely forthcoming at Selhurst Park will secure a place in England's squad for the World Cup in Qatar.

It is understood that Palace have beaten off competition from France and at home to sign Johnstone, with Lyon making a last minute offer for the shot stopper, whilst Birmingham and Aston Villa were amongst the sides looking at a potential move for the keeper.

WBA rejected a £10 million bid from West Ham last summer, with the Hammers instead opting to make a move for Alphonse Areola. It is hoped that Johnstone will compete with Vicente Guaita for a starting perth at Palace, as Patrick Vieira prepares his squad ahead of the upcoming 2022-23 season.