SAM JOHNSTONE JOINS WOLVES

Wolves have secured the services of international goalkeeper Sam Johnstone from fellow Premier League side Crystal Palace.

The 31-year-old, now on a four-year contract, brings extensive experience to Molineux, boasting over 350 senior matches and regularly featuring in Gareth Southgate’s England squad in recent times.

Previously with Manchester United, Johnstone sharpened his skills through ten different loan spells across League One and the Championship, including two periods with Aston Villa between 2016 and 2018.

He established himself as a starting goalkeeper at West Bromwich Albion, playing every minute during their promotion-winning campaign and earning his first Premier League experience. Despite their quick return to the Championship, he was named Player of the Season.

During his time at the Hawthorns, Johnstone earned his first senior cap for England, having previously triumphed at the Under-17 Euros in 2010. He was part of the national squad that reached the Euro 2020 final at Wembley.

In the past two seasons at Selhurst Park, he was a regular starter for the Eagles, though calf and elbow injuries saw him miss parts of the season and Euro 2024 selection.

With limited opportunities at Palace this season, he’s now agreed to a long-term deal at Molineux, with an option for an extra year.

Sporting director Matt Hobbs remarked: “It’s fantastic to have a player with significant Premier League experience and an international pedigree. We wanted more competition in goal, and it’s about balancing investment, squad enhancement, and future planning.

“Sam is at a prime age for goalkeepers, and it’s now up to him and the others to compete for the spot.

“We seek good characters in our squad; Sam fits well culturally and brings a lot to the table.

“Having strong competition in the squad improves the team overall. Bringing in a seasoned, homegrown player like him boosts the group’s competitiveness. We wouldn’t pass up such an opportunity for any position, including goalkeeper.”