Don Goodman has suggested that Mikey Johnston should consider leaving Celtic this summer, with a potential return to West Bromwich Albion looking like a feasible option. Johnston made a significant impact at The Hawthorns in the latter part of the 2023-24 season, contributing to nine goals in 20 league matches. Although he has now returned to Celtic Park following his loan spell, West Brom remains keen on securing his services for another season.
Goodman believes that West Brom, a club with aspirations of climbing to the top tier, would be a perfect fit for Johnston. He asserts that Johnston’s time at West Brom showed his potential, making him a valuable asset for any Championship team aiming for promotion. Goodman noted that the competitive nature of Championship football allowed Johnston to thrive, unlike the more predictable Scottish league, which is often dominated by Celtic and Rangers.
While Johnston could be tempted by the chance to play European football with Celtic next season, his actual playing time under manager Brendan Rodgers is uncertain. Goodman speculates that without a guarantee of regular first-team action, Johnston should seek opportunities elsewhere. A move back to West Brom, where he enjoyed consistent play and growth, could be beneficial for both the player and the club.
West Brom is eager to bolster their squad and aim for automatic promotion in the coming season. With new ownership under Shilen Patel, there is potential for investment in new players, including Johnston. However, the financial aspects of the deal could pose a challenge. If Johnston requests a transfer and Celtic agrees to a reasonable fee, the move could materialize, though it remains a complex negotiation.
In summary, while a return to West Brom for Johnston is appealing, it hinges on multiple factors, including his desire for regular play, Celtic’s willingness to negotiate, and West Brom’s financial capabilities. As the summer transfer window opens, fans and pundits alike will be watching closely to see if Johnston’s impressive stint at The Hawthorns can continue.
