Norwich City, Torino and Sporting-linked Max Johnston opens up on future hopes

Max Johnston has opened up on the transfer speculation surrounding him, as he looks set to bid farewell to Motherwell.

The 19-year-old full-back's contract with the Steelmen ran out at the end tof the season and he has not committed to the new deal offered to him by Motherwell boss Stuart Kettlewell towards in the final knockings of last term.

English Championship outfit Norwich City, Italian Serie A side Torino and Portuguese giants Sporting Lisbon are among the club chasing his signature for next season and Johnston has told Daily Record he is yet to decide where his future lies, but he wants to play at 'the highest level possible.'

He said: "I still don’t know what the future holds. There has been a lot of interest from clubs from the English Premier League and Championship, Portugal, Serie A and the Bundesliga.

"I have spoken with a few clubs and others have spoken with my agent. It has been mental so much so that I have tried to stay off social media but it is near impossible when my pals tag me into everything, when I have been linked with different teams.

“It has always been about playing football for me.

"Wherever I go next season I want to push on again.

"I want to get the highest level I can. I don’t want to go to a club and pick up a decent wage but having very little chance of first-team football.

“I want to learn, develop and progress. I want to go to a club where I know if I can do well that I will get a run in the first-team.

“I know you are never guaranteed to play but I want to give myself the best opportunity to do that.

“It is then up to me to push and win a jersey.”

The Scotland under-21 international started last season on loan at Cove Rangers before Steven Hammell recalled him in January to help