Signing Sam Johnstone would represent a "really impressive" start to the transfer window by Tottenham, according to journalist Pete O'Rourke.

The £7.2m-rated goalkeeper is out of contract at West Brom this summer and is wanted by both Spurs and Manchester United.

What's the latest news involving Johnstone?

According to Sky Sports, the top six rivals, who are likely to be in the market for a new shotstopper, are expected to battle it out for the 29-year-old's signature.

Johnstone has spent a season in the Championship but is keen to return to the Premier League having been relegated with the Baggies this time 12 months ago.

The report says that Southampton, whose senior goalkeepers are both set to become free agents in the coming months, are also in the running, although it could become a straight shootout between Tottenham and United.

Johnstone's career at West Brom is all-but over after Steve Bruce confirmed that the England keeper won't be involved for the remainder of the campaign after increased uncertainty about his future.

And if he chooses to sign for Spurs, O'Rourke reckons that it would be a fine start to the window for Antonio Conte.

What did O'Rourke say about Johnstone?

He told GIVEMESPORT: "That's what you need at the big clubs, competition for places just in case there are injuries or anything else.

"I think Sam Johnstone is at the right age as a goalkeeper, coming into his prime, so if Spurs were to get him, I think it would be a really impressive start to the transfer window if they do get that deal over the line."

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Why do Tottenham need Johnstone?

With Pierluigi Gollini's loan deal running out, Conte will need to bring in an understudy for Lloris.

Tottenham have struggled with finding a suitable backup goalkeeper in recent seasons, with the likes of Michel Vorm, Joe Hart and Gollini not exactly covering themselves in glory when they were called upon.

Therefore, an international keeper, with Premier League experience, on a free transfer, would represent a sensible piece of business for Spurs, not to mention that signing Johnstone would increase homegrown options, especially if the likes of Japhet Tanganga and Harry Winks are moved on.

Overall, with it being a position that Tottenham simply must fill, there are very few negatives to bringing in Johnstone this summer.