A change in the goalkeeping department is seemingly on the horizon for Crystal Palace.
Sam Johnstone has just asked to leave Crystal Palace – according to The Athletic – after Oliver Glasner informed the England international that Dean Henderson would remain his No.1 at Selhurst Park.
In the meantime, a story from Alan Nixon mentioned that Dougie Freedman will bid for Plymouth Argyle No.1 Michael Cooper if Johnstone leaves.
Now, there has been an interesting development for Crystal Palace fans to digest…
Crystal Palace target Michael Cooper left out by Wayne Rooney
Cooper ended the 2023/24 campaign as No.1 at Plymouth Argyle, but the 24-year-old was dropped for Sunday’s Championship opener against Sheffield United amid doubts over his future at the Home Park Stadium.
The man from Exeter is believed to have rejected a new contract, with just 11 months remaining on his current deal at Plymouth Argyle.
Cooper made 19 appearances in the Championship last season, keeping six clean sheets while conceding 24 goals.
Dougie Freedman needs Sam Johnstone movement to occur soon as Sheffield United lurk
This is a finely poised situation, and we risk missing out on Cooper if Johnstone fails to find a new club soon.
The Plymouth Argyle No.1 is also being pursued by Sheffield United, with The Star claiming that the Blades feel confident about signing the goalkeeper, who is valued at £6m.
However, Cooper is said to be aware that Crystal Palace want to sign him, and he would presumably prefer a Premier League move as opposed to linking up with Chris Wilder at Bramall Lane.
Ultimately, it just comes down to how quickly an exit can be arranged for Johnstone, who was not in the squad for Sunday’s 1-1 draw against Nantes.
That aforementioned story from The Athletic added that Crystal Palace have accepted the 31-year-old’s decision and will help him find a new club, with Leicester, Nottingham Forest, Southampton and Wolves all interested.
Therefore, if Johnstone departs before Cooper leaves Plymouth Argyle, we would expect Freedman to swoop in and attempt to hijack Sheffield United’s talks.
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Be sure to keep an eye on this situation, as Henderson could soon have a new challenger at Selhurst Park.
