Mikey Johnston has returned to West Brom pre-season training, as new accusations emerge from Brazil regarding his attempted £5 million deal to Flamengo.
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After Johnston’s proposed move to Brazil was first disclosed on Saturday, it was claimed on Sunday evening that the transaction was on the verge of collapse, with Flamengo officials withdrawing from the contract.
Contrasting stories emerged about why the agreement was called off, with some stating it was due to Johnston’s injury record. These reports were inaccurate, and the second reason was a backlash from Flamengo fans.
On Tuesday, it was reported in Brazil that the club had altered their mind when a ‘better option’ became available, as well as reservations over the number of non-Brazilian players in their team. The story has continued into Wednesday, with new revelations emerging about how close Johnston came to signing for the Brazilian club.
The winger did not fly to Brazil as scheduled, but he did participate in a video conversation with manager Filipe Luis, who revealed his plans for Johnston.
However, following the call and as the fan backlash grew, both Johnston and the Flamengo manager were taken aback when the club’s president, Luiz Eduardo Baptista, called off the transaction. After the transaction fell, Johnston flew to Austria and arrived at the training camp on Tuesday, where he trained with his teammates on Wednesday morning.
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