Aston Villa will need to achieve automatic promotion this season if they are to guarantee the signing of Sam Johnstone during the summer transfer window.

Johnstone is enjoying a fine second loan spell at Villa Park, with the on-loan Manchester United goalkeeper a standout performer for Steve Bruce’s side, who are looking to achieve promotion back to the Premier League.

Bruce is hopeful of adding Johnstone on a permanent transfer in the summer, but according to a report in the Birmingham Mail, Villa’s hopes appear to rest on what division they will be playing in next season, as it is widely expected that the goalkeeper will be playing top-flight football next season, with or without Villa.

Villa are well in the hunt for promotion this season, with Bruce’s side not just targeting a place in the top-six, but having hopes of automatic promotion after a run of six consecutive victories.

Bruce’s side currently sit third in the Championship table, a single point adrift of Derby County, who occupy the second automatic promotion place.

Johnstone has featured in all 30 of Villa’s Championship fixtures this season, conceding just 27 goals and managing to keep 13 clean sheets.

The Verdict

The 24-year-old has developed into one of the Championship’s standout goalkeepers this season, with Johnstone’s performances key to helping Villa into the race for automatic promotion.

Villa’s side is built on a consistent defensive unit, which Johnstone is a part of.

Not landing a permanent deal for the goalkeeper in the summer would be a huge blow for Villa, whether they are in the Premier League or Championship next season.

However, denying Johnstone a shot at Premier League football next season would be harsh, as the 24-year-old’s performances are more than deserving of that chance. 

Aston Villa fans… Let us know your thoughts!