AliousSunderland Eye Premier League Star in Surprise Loan Move as Johnstone Interest Heats Up Amid Leeds Transfer Crossover
Sunderland are reportedly stepping up their interest in Wolverhampton Wanderers goalkeeper Sam Johnstone, as transfer links between the newly-promoted Premier League side and Leeds United continue to intersect.
Both Sunderland and Leeds have been frequently linked with the same targets this summer as they prepare for life back in the top flight. Sunderland notably beat Leeds to the signings of midfielders Habib Diarra and Noah Sadiki — players the Whites had been tracking before they joined Régis Le Bris’ project at the Stadium of Light.
Now, attention has turned to the goalkeeping department, where Sunderland are believed to be considering a move for England international Sam Johnstone. According to reporter Alan Nixon via his Patreon channel, the Black Cats are “ready to move” for the experienced shot-stopper, with a loan arrangement potentially on the table due to the length of his current deal with Wolves.
Johnstone, 32, has a wealth of top-tier experience from spells with clubs such as Manchester United, Aston Villa, and Crystal Palace. He is highly regarded by Sunderland’s newly-appointed goalkeeping coach Neil Cutler, who previously worked closely with him at both Villa and Wolves.
If the deal materialises, Johnstone would come in as competition for Anthony Patterson, who played a key role in Sunderland’s promotion campaign last season but may now face serious pressure for the No. 1 spot.
Meanwhile, Leeds United are also navigating their own uncertain goalkeeping situation. Illan Meslier, who has held the first-choice position for much of his six years at Elland Road, was dropped near the end of the last campaign in favour of Karl Darlow. While Darlow performed well during the crucial final stretch, Meslier’s future remains in doubt, with several European clubs reportedly tracking the Frenchman.
Leeds continue to be linked with a variety of potential replacements, but as things stand, Sunderland could once again pip them to a shared transfer target — adding to an increasingly familiar summer trend.
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