England international goalkeeper Sam Johnstone is now a free agent and should be pursued by Rangers to provide quality and competition between the posts.
Following confirmation of his release by West Bromwich Albion, the 29-year old will not be short of offers in the Premier League as well as the top bracket of the Championship.
Sam Johnstone released by West Brom.
Of course Premier League clubs will be able to offer more money, even if not first choice but Rangers should be declaring an interest there.
— Graeme Hanna (@graeme818) May 24, 2022
Crystal Palace have been linked with a move for Johnstone, as well as a potential return to Manchester United. Spurs had also been mentioned but it is understood that they are very close to completing a deal for Fraser Forster who is leaving Southampton imminently and that the departing West Brom keeper was never under serious consideration.
Realistic
Could Rangers sign Sam Johnstone, is he a credible target? The short answer is yes, but it all depends on what the player wants. If it is about maximising money, then he will take an offer from the Premier League, even if not to be first choice. He will also have some offers to come in as number one. His England aspirations could prohibit the appeal of a move north, but look what it done for Forster across the city.
Move to Scotland, pick-up medals, Champions League/Europa League exposure, playing on a big stage in front of a massive, passionate fan base. The appeal is clear to see and Rangers will be able to make an attractive offer to the player.
In terms of the goalkeeping situation at Ibrox, Allan McGregor’s future remains unconfirmed but surely Jon McLaughlin now deserves a shot to be first choice. This should come with no guarantees other than form and consistency being the deciding factor. That type of competition should be relished by the likes of McLaughlin and even Johnstone, it is also what the former has faced over the past couple of seasons with McGregor preferred.
As for Robby McCrorie, one final loan at a good level is in order for him to really prove his worth with some questions still remaining on his viability as a long-term option at Ibrox.
Very soon we will know about Allan McGregor’s final decision, but it just feels like the right time for both parties to call it a day. The Hampden send-off was perfect, given the overall situation. Then that would leave another goalkeeper to come in. Sam Johnstone is proven at a very good level.
Make the move Rangers, let the interest be known.