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West Ham emerge as favourites to beat Man United to this De Gea replacement

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Manchester United trail West Ham United in the race for Sam Johnstone

According to ESPN, Manchester United are currently behind West Ham United in the race to sign West Bromwich Albion goalkeeper Sam Johnstone.

The Red Devils are set for a summer revamp of their goalkeeping department a number of players are set to leave, including even David de Gea.

While United may already have their No.1 in Dean Henderson, they need to bring in a backup goalkeeper should De Gea leave. One name in the fray is Johnstone, who is a former United youth product.

Sam Johnstone has flourished at West Bromwich Albion (David Klein/Sportimage)

The 28-year-old came through the ranks at United but failed to make a single senior start for the club. He left United to join the Baggies permanently in 2018 and has since gone from strength to strength.

With just one year left on his current deal, West Brom face a fight on their hands to keep the player at the Hawthorns. Allardyce had earlier claimed that a decision would be taken on the player’s future once the Baggies discover their Premier League fate.

The Red Devils are keen to bring in a Premier League proven goalkeeper to challenge Henderson and Johnstone appears to have Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s vote of confidence.

David de Gea and Sam Johnstone at Manchester United
David de Gea and Sam Johnstone at Manchester United

An offer he cannot refuse?

The Norwegian faces competition from West Ham, currently managed by former United manager David Moyes. The Scot worked with Johnstone during his brief spell at United and can also offer him a better role than us.

Johnstone was even called up for the England squad recently. At 28, he is in his prime. Moving to London would not just see him play more but he can also boost his chances of staying involved in the Three Lions setup.

Moyes can offer Johnstone regular playtime at West Ham (Arfa Griffiths/WestxHam United/Shutterstock)

More Manchester United News

It was revealed earlier that a major reason for Johnstone leaving United was being forced to play second fiddle to David de Gea. Returning to Old Trafford to reprise the same role, this time behind Henderson, makes little sense for him.