Sheffield United have reportedly agreed a deal worth up to £2.5 million for Celtic winger Michael Johnston.
The 25-year-old winger spent the second half of last season at EFL Championship rivals West Bromwich Albion, where he helped drive the Baggies to a play-off finish, scoring seven and assisting once.
It appears the Celtic man could make a move back to the Championship, but this time for recently relegated Sheffield United, who have agreed a deal with Celtic over Mikey Johnston.
The Blades have been battling it out with Burnley for the winger, but Chris Wilder’s side could now be in pole position for the Irish international’s signature.
Blades agree a deal.
According to Alan Nixon (paywall), Sheffield United have agreed a deal worth up to £2.5 million for Johnston from Celtic, which could put them ahead of Burnley in the race for the forward.
The Blades have been busy this summer, strengthening their squad with the likes of Harrison Burrows, Alfie Gilchrist and Callum O’Hare, but they are yet to sign a left-winger.
Chris Wilder’s side currently have no senior left-wingers, having Gustavo Hamer playing there to fill the gap; adding Johnston could help fill that gap of having no natural left-winger, strengthening the left side, adding depth and potentially providing cover for Hamer in case he leaves as Alan Nixon reported.
How did Johnston fare last season?
Johnston started the first half of the campaign playing for Celtic, where he struggled for game time, often being left on the bench or out of the matchday squad. The 25-year-old made 12 appearances in all competitions for Celtic, scoring two and assisting two.
In the January transfer window, Carlos Corberan brought in the Irishmen on loan until the end of the season, where he became a vital part of the Baggies side, making 18 appearances and picking up eight goal contributions, averaging a goal every 168 minutes.
His efforts helped West Brom reach the play-offs, but they lost 3-1 on aggregate to Southampton, the eventual winners. Johnston picked up an assist in the second leg, but it was ultimately a consolation goal.
Johnston made 20 appearances in all competitions, scoring seven goals and assisting twice, playing a crucial role for Carlos Corberan with his goal contributions.