Report: Cardiff City enter race for Manchester United goalkeeper Sam Johnstone

Cardiff City will rival Aston Villa for the signing of Manchester United goalkeeper Sam Johnstone, according to a report.

The 25-year-old has impressed on loan with the Villans this term, playing a key part in their run to next week's playoff final.

Villa boss Steve Bruce admitted earlier in the season that he wants to sign Johnstone on a permanent basis in the summer, regardless of what division his side are in.

United reportedly have the option to trigger a one-year extension in the Englishman's contract, ensuring that they will generate a fee for his services.

Villa now face competition from Cardiff, though, as The Sun claims that Neil Warnock is ready to pounce as he seeks competition for first-choice stopper Neil Etheridge.

Etheridge featured in all but one of the Bluebirds' 46 league matches in their promotion-winning campaign, keeping 19 clean sheets.