Headline24jam.com – Flamengo Sporting Director Jose Boto has provided insights regarding the failed £5 million transfer of Mikey Johnston from West Bromwich Albion. Despite Johnston’s strong performances, the move to the Brazilian club could not materialize before the summer transfer window closed.
Transfer Saga Explained
The 26-year-old Johnston was expected to make a significant shift to Flamengo after showcasing his skills with Albion. Having made his loan move from Celtic permanent for £3 million last season, he was seen as a potential key player for Flamengo, who recently competed in the Club World Cup.
Reasons for Failed Transfer
Boto clarified that the primary reasons for Johnston’s transfer not proceeding were concerns about Flamengo’s foreign player quota and the club’s decision to pursue other transfer targets. Notably, Flamengo had recently sold Gerson to Zenit St Petersburg for €25 million and acquired former Atlético Madrid players Saul Niguez and Samuel Lino.
Boto stated, "In Mikey’s case, he was one of the players we saw would help the team with things we needed… the fans might have had a different reaction if he joined alongside big names."
West Bromwich Albion’s Benefit
Since the failed transfer, Johnston has remained a vital player for West Brom. Under manager Ryan Mason, he has continued to develop into an essential asset for the team, evidenced by his two assists in a recent 3-2 victory over Wrexham, followed by a stunning goal against Portsmouth.
Mason has emphasized Johnston’s importance to the club’s ambitions, which aims to improve on last season’s ninth-place finish in the Championship. With Johnston’s dynamic playing style, he remains crucial for West Brom’s attacking strategy alongside teammates like Isaac Price and Jed Wallace.
Johnston’s swift recovery from the transfer saga reflects his commitment to West Brom, and fans can expect to see more impactful performances as the season progresses.
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