Manchester United goalkeeper Sam Johnstone makes Aston Villa loan switch

05 January 2017 12:24

Aston Villa have signed goalkeeper Sam Johnstone from Manchester United on loan for the rest of the season.

The 23-year-old could make his debut in Sunday's FA Cup trip to Tottenham after joining on Thursday.

He becomes Steve Bruce's first signing for Villa, with the boss having targeted a new goalkeeper in January.

Johnstone told the club's official site: "I'm really pleased to have joined Aston Villa - it's a massive club.

"I'm really excited to be here. Aston Villa were interested and it's an opportunity I jumped at. It's one you simply can't turn down.

"I can't wait to work with Steve Bruce too. I've heard very good things about the manager. You can see his track record.

"He's good for the club and I can't wait to get going now."

Pierluigi Gollini started the season as the club's first-choice goalkeeper but was replaced by Mark Bunn last month, although the former Norwich goalkeeper has kept just one clean sheet in seven games.

Johnstone is yet to make an appearance for Manchester United but has had loan spells at Scunthorpe, Walsall, Yeovil, Doncaster and Preston.

Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho stated before the transfer window opened that Johnstone will be the only player allowed to leave Old Trafford on loan in January.

Source: PA