Manchester United have completed the signing of goalkeeper Lee Grant from relegated Stoke City on a two year deal and becomes the Reds’ third signing of the season after right back Diogo Dalot and midfielder Fred were followed by a new deal for Marouane Fellaini.
Speaking to United’s official website, Grant was delighted to be completing a dream move, saying:
“Moving to Manchester United has been a dream of mine for as long as I can remember. This was an opportunity that I couldn’t let pass and I’m thrilled to become a part of such a historic club.
”I’ve enjoyed every moment of my career so far and I’m now ready to continue learning and improving alongside some of the best players in the game. But at the same time, I intend to use my experience to help the team whenever possible.
“I want to say a huge thank you to those close to me who have supported me along my journey so far. I’m looking forward to meeting my teammates and giving everything possible for the club in the upcoming season.”
#MUFC is delighted to announce the signing of Lee Grant on a two-year deal: https://t.co/pebTQFjRaq pic.twitter.com/llAEkvvvkp
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) July 3, 2018
Grant, 35, began his career at Watford but also spent some time at Oldham Athletic on loan earlier in his career which took in spells at Derby County, Burnley, Sheffield Wednesday, Burnley, and finally Stoke.
Having joined the Potters on loan as cover for the injured Jack Butland, Grant produced a man of the match performance at Old Trafford in October 2016 to help Stoke draw 1-1.
In their next meeting, Grant kept the Reds at bay until a 93rd minute when Wayne Rooney made club history by scoring his 250th goal for United.
Sam Johnstone departs Manchester United to join West Brom
With the signing of Grant confirmed, reserve goalkeeper Sam Johnstone has completed a transfer from United to Championship club West Bromwich Albion.
Baggies manager Darren Moore, who secured a shock win at Old Trafford last April, has made the Johnstone his first signing of the summer on a four year contract at The Hawthorns.
The 25 year old custodian also spent time on loan at Oldham Athletic along with spells at Scunthorpe United, Walsall, Yeovil Town, Doncaster Rovers and Aston Villa.
It was at Villa that Johnston impressed most, with 22 appearances in 2016/17 followed by 48 under Steve Bruce last term – including 20 clean sheets as the West Midlands side reached the Championship play-off final.
Johnstone was sad to be leaving Old Trafford but said: “I’ve grown up at United and had the most amazing time, it’s the best club to learn when you are a young player and prepare you for the future.”