Former academy star makes loan moveSam Johnstone is on his way back to Aston Villa on a season long loan after Jose Mourinho agreed a deal with the Midland outfit according to the latest reports.
The Manchester Evening News notes that Johnstone has returned to Villa Park – the club where he amassed over 20 appearances last season.
Middlesbrough were also believed to be interested in the 24 year-old but Johnstone was convinced by Villa boss, former United skipper Steve Bruce that he’d be first choice for the Midland outfit as they prepare to mount a promotion bid from the Championship.
England under 20 international Johnstone has been on loan for seven different clubs since he broke through the United academy but despite his glowing reputation and a string of impressive displays for both the academy and while on loan he has never been given the chance with the United first team.
With David De Gea, United’s number one plus Sergio Romero and Joel Pereira also ahead of Johnstone in the Old Trafford pecking order a loan move makes perfect sense – reports are that Jose Mourinho rates him.
Here’s how United fans reacted to the news:
Sam Johnstone is set to join Aston Villa on a season long loan [men]
— utdreport (@utdreport) July 9, 2017
Just sell him
— Pj (@ffsbaiIly) July 9, 2017
Sell him
— ㅤ (@UtdRobbie) July 9, 2017
just sell him. he's like 24 and our 4th choice keeper
— Ben Mooney (@benmufc98) July 9, 2017
FOR SALE/LOAN: Johnstone, Varela, Borthwick-Jackson & Januzaj. They are not in the USA or Austria Tour Squads so are surplus to requirements
— ManUtd Zimbabwe