Leeds United target Wolves’ Sam Johnstone

Leeds United are setting their sights on bolstering their squad ahead of their return to the Premier League, and a key focus appears to be between the sticks. According to The Sun, the club has identified Wolverhampton Wanderers goalkeeper Sam Johnstone as a potential replacement for current No.1 Illan Meslier, who is reportedly attracting interest from other clubs and could be on his way out of Elland Road this summer.

With promotion back to the top flight secured, Leeds are looking to add experience and stability to their lineup — particularly in goal, where the pressure will be on from day one. Sam Johnstone, a seasoned shot-stopper with both Premier League and international experience, appears to fit the bill perfectly.

At 32, Johnstone brings a wealth of knowledge and a calm presence to the back line. Though his current spell at Wolves has been somewhat limited — featuring in just 10 games this season, during which he conceded 19 goals and kept one clean sheet — his pedigree remains unquestioned. The former West Bromwich Albion and Manchester United keeper has built a strong reputation over the years, earning four caps for the England national team and demonstrating the kind of leadership and resilience that Leeds could benefit from in their Premier League campaign.

Johnstone’s situation at Molineux has taken a turn recently, as he has fallen down the pecking order behind first-choice goalkeeper José Sá. With limited opportunities on the horizon at Wolves, a move to Leeds could be appealing — especially if it comes with the promise of regular first-team football. That desire for consistent playing time could be the key factor in convincing the experienced keeper to make the switch to West Yorkshire.

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For Leeds, securing a goalkeeper of Johnstone’s caliber would be a significant statement of intent. Illan Meslier has been a solid performer for the club in recent seasons, but speculation surrounding his future has only intensified since Leeds clinched promotion. With top-flight clubs monitoring the Frenchman, Leeds appear to be preparing for life after Meslier — and Johnstone, with his proven Premier League track record, would be a logical and strategic choice.

Moreover, Johnstone’s leadership and experience could prove invaluable in guiding a relatively young Leeds squad through the challenges of the Premier League. His presence would also offer some much-needed stability in a high-pressure position that often becomes a focal point during a club’s first season back in the top division.

As the summer transfer window approaches, Leeds United are expected to be active in the market. Bringing in a goalkeeper like Sam Johnstone would not only solidify a key position but also demonstrate the club’s commitment to staying competitive at the highest level. Whether or not the deal comes to fruition, it’s clear that Leeds are thinking ahead — and Johnstone could be just the man to lead them from the back as they aim to re-establish themselves in the Premier League.

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Would Sam Johnstone be a good signing for Leeds United?

Bologna-born Giuseppe Bianchi has spent more than a decade living in Rome and writing about Italian football, Spanish football and the Premier League for various Italian football portals and now he writes about European football for Euro Football Rumours. He's been thinking about football transfers pretty much nonstop since the 1990 FIFA World Cup in Italy. Aside from writing, he likes to spend his time fishing and rock climbing.