Tottenham Hotspur have been monitoring Sam Johnstone ahead of a potential swoop in January or the summer...

What's the word?

That's according to Sky Sports reporter Michael Bridge, who delivered a fresh claim on their pursuit to GIVEMESPORT earlier this week. He said: "If Spurs are looking at Sam Johnstone, I'm sure that's a sensible option.

"I think Spurs have been watching him. He is homegrown, which is good."

The England international was subject to interest from several top-flight clubs during the summer transfer window, including West Ham, who saw a £10m bid for him rejected, as per the BBC.

Spurs were also linked with a move for the 6 foot 4 shot-stopper several months ago after The Athletic's Steve Madeley revealed that the north London outfit had 'sent out feelers' to the Baggies following relegation.

Lloris heir?

This latest development should leave much of the Lilywhites faithful absolutely buzzing as it seems as if the club's hierarchy, notably sporting director Fabio Paratici and chairman Daniel Levy, are planning for the future.

Hugo Lloris (34) is out of contract in the summer, so a change could well be required between the sticks, and the fact that Johnstone is being monitored suggests that he could be a possible successor - and a very worthy one, too.

Despite West Brom's relegation, the 28-year-old colossus made Gareth Southgate's England squad at Euro 2020 and he has since picked up three caps, even with Albion in the second tier.

That shows his quality, whilst previous praise from former managers show an insight into his work ethic, attitude and undoubted ability.

"He’s one of the best," claimed ex-West Brom boss Sam Allardyce back in December, with Johnstone being dubbed a "diamond" to work with by Steve Bruce, his former boss at Villa.

No goalkeeper in the Premier League has faced more shots on target (168) than Johnstone last season, nor did any goalkeeper make as many saves either (116). His four saves per 90 minutes was far above that of Lloris (2.77), as per FBRef.

The veteran glovesman, who captained France to UEFA Nations League glory earlier this month, has often come under criticism for his form in N17, in which he was once slammed for his "lettuce wrists" and dubbed a "weak link" in defence by talkSPORT pundits Jason Cundy and Trevor Sinclair.

Johnstone, who is valued at just £7.2m by Transfermarkt, could be a bargain replacement come next summer, particularly as he's only on a reported £32.5k-per-week at the Hawthorns.

Spurs fans should be excited by Bridge's suggestion that the club have been watching him ahead of a potential move. He'd be a very astute addition, even if Lloris remains.

AND in other news, £18m-rated Spurs passenger who lost the ball every 2.7 touches was a disaster against West Ham...