Tottenham are facing competition from Everton in the battle to sign West Brom goalkeeper Sam Johnstone.
And that could raise doubts over England No.1 Jordan Pickford's long term future at Goodison Park ahead of the World Cup. Johnstone, who was on Manchester United's books between 2011 and 2018, is a free agent this summer after running down his contract at the Hawthorns and the England international is an attractive option for several Premier League clubs.
Tottenham believe they are in pole position for the 29-year-ol as they look for back-up and competition for captain Hugo Lloris with number two keeper Pierluigi Gollini’s future uncertain.
But intriguingly Everton are also watching developments closely as they could be left facing a battle to keep Pickford who, despite the club’s relegation struggles, has been in good form for club and country this season. Pickford, 28, has got two years left on his contract, is one of Everton’s most prized assets and they would be reluctant to let him leave but he will be anxious to protect his place as England’s first choice in a World Cup year.
Johnstone remained at West Brom this season but has made it clear he wants to leave to get back into the Premier League as he is also thinking about his own England career, having been a regular in Gareth Southgate’s squad. There has been no shortage of interest in ex-United trainee Johnstone, who has three England senior caps but never made a senior appearance at Old Trafford, with Southampton and West Ham having also been linked.
The stopper has made 36 appearances for the Baggies this season but has so far refused to agree to extended terms and that has led to Albion boss Steve Bruce accepting his future is elsewhere. Bruce, who arrived at the Hawthorns in February, acknowledged Johnstone will be stood down for the club's remaining fixtures this season.
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Experienced Albion goalkeeper David Button returned to the side for their 2-1 win over Blackpool on Good Friday and the 4-0 loss at Forest on East Monday and Bruce plans to stick with him for the remainder of the campaign, with Alex Palmer and Josh Griffiths to provide competition and cover.
Bruce said earlier this month: "I've had a word with Sam. Sam looks as if he's decided to let his contract run down and that is his prerogative. We haven't been able to get him a deal, so I'll have a look at Button and see how he does. It's only right that David plays. We've chopped and changed a little bit. That is pretty normal. What will make the headlines will be the goalkeeping situation.
"Sam's been a great servant to this club but we have to accept that he's decided not to sign his contract and we wish him the best of luck. So it's important we give Dave the gloves and see how he does. He has bags of experience. He has been round the block and played a lot of games in his career."
