"Expected to happen" – Sky Sports reporter drops major update on Tottenham transfer target

Sam Johnstone is expected to become Tottenham‘s first summer signing, according to Sky Sports reporter Michael Bridge.

Antonio Conte wants to add a backup goalkeeper to his squad, and Johnstone looks set to provide competition and cover for Hugo Lloris.

Tottenham have had their eyes on the West Brom stopper since last season, but after missing out on his services 12 months ago, they look to have won the race this time around.

Sky Sports reported last month that Spurs and Manchester United were expected to compete for his services, but the Red Devils have since pulled out of the running, leaving Tottenham with a free run at his signature.

The Evening Standard have since reported that Conte’s side are in ‘pole position‘ to sign Johnstone with the deal rated as ‘very likely’ to happen, while Bridge is also confident that the England stopper will become a Tottenham player this summer.

He told GIVEMESPORT: “I think that’s one that is potentially expected to happen.

“The homegrown issue is a big issue in terms of Europe, so, that one for me, I reckon that will happen.”

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While a backup goalkeeper is far from a priority position for Conte, Spurs need a solid option for cup games and if Lloris isn’t available.

In recent years, Tottenham have suffered from playing the likes of Michel Vorm, Joe Hart and Pierluigi Gollini in Europe and domestic cup games, and Johnstone will be seen as an upgrade on those three.

Not only does he also have Premier League experience and has performed well at this level previously, but he would help Spurs’ homegrown situation.

Furthermore, with Johnstone’s contract at West Brom expiring next month, Tottenham will be signing him on