Crystal Palace secure first summer signing after agreeing deal with highly-rated goalkeeper

Crystal Palace have signed English goalkeeper Sam Johnstone on a four-year deal, according to the Athletic.

The goalkeeper was a target for Tottenham but it’s Palace who ended up securing his signature with his current deal with West Brom coming to an end this month.

The Eagles had made contact with the goalkeeper, making him aware of their interest as he looked through his options earlier in the summer.

Patrick Vieira’s side are due back for pre-season next week but the transfer window has been quite slow for the Eagles, with primary target Eddie Nketiah deciding against a move to Selhurst and instead staying at Arsenal.

Johnstone is an English international and was last in post for the Three Lions against Andorra in October 202.

He will now compete with Spanish Vicente Guaita for the number one spot at Selhurst.

Jack Butland was the Cup keeper last season but he has been rumoured to be on his way out of the club so the arrival of Johnstone is expected to fill the gap and fresh up competition for places.

Last campaign Sam Johnstone played a total of 36 league games for West Brom, keeping 15 clean sheets, but it was clear that he would not renew his contract as he looked to return to the Premier League and fight for a place in Southgate’s World Cup squad.

Last January, Sam Johnstone was linked with a move to West Ham, Palace and Brentford but West Brom held on to him with the hopes of securing a return to the Premier League - which ultimately wasn’t to be.

Palace fans will hope that his arrival will kick start an influx of new signings at Selhurst as they look to build on from the impressive first season under Patrick Vieira.