West Bromwich Albion have confirmed their 10th signing of the summer, Mikey Johnston. The ex-Celtic winegr had an enjoyable half-season on loan with the Baggies last campaign but has now made his move permanent.
The Baggies have often been hamstrung in the transfer market this summer, but this deal is a big one to get over the line. Johnston had been linked to other clubs this summer, including Sheffield United, but West Brom have won the race for his signature.
West Brom confirm permanent signing of Mikey Johnston
The signing of Johnston may not have been a headline-grabbing one in January, but it turned out to be a stroke of genius. The Scottish winger registered eight goal involvements in the Championship, his best return in a single campaign despite playing just 18 times.
Johnston had never been able to make the grade at Celtic and struggled to nail down a starting spot under several different managers. So, a fresh move to the Hawthorns was widely accepted by everyone, and it’s now turned into a permanent move.
Celtic had reportedly agreed deals with multiple clubs over Johnston, leaving the decision up to the winger. After much deliberation, the winger decided to return to West Brom where he enjoyed the most success of his career last time out.
Baggies beat Championship rival to top signing
It’s been reported that West Brom have only had to pay £3 million for Johnston who lit up the Hawthorns on multiple occasions last season. Celtic were happy to receive this sort of fee for someone who still had two years left on his contract, but never lived up to expectations north of the border.
West Brom are currently sitting in the play-off positions and unbeaten in the league this season. However, after narrowly missing out on the play-off final, Carlos Corberan’s men will be desperate to go one step further and their chance of doing so will have increased following the addition of Johnston.
Johnston handed a long-term contract
Despite only joining in January this year, Johnston went on to become a fan favourite and someone Corberan could rely upon. The Scottish winger ended up as the club’s joint-third top scorer in the Championship, so with a full campaign ahead of him, he could hit incredible numbers with the Baggies.
With Johnston picking West Brom over other Championship rivals, the Baggies have rightfully so, rewarded him. It’s been reported that the Baggies have tied the winger down to a four-year deal, such is their faith and confidence in his ability for the present and future.
