Fan backlash prompts major update in Irish winger’s move to Brazilian giants

He looked nailed on for a move

It was revealed on Saturday that the 26-year-old, who has 15 caps for Republic of Ireland, was set to complete a €5.8m move to Flamengo, who reached the last 16 of the Club World Cup.

But Sky Sports reported on Monday morning that the move had stalled, referencing “a backlash from supporters” of Flamengo. 

The former Celtic winger was due to fly to Rio de Janeiro on Tuesday, but is now set to rejoin West Brom on their pre-season tour in Austria. 

Johnston left Celtic last summer to join the Championship club for €3.5m, and registered three goals and five assists in his 41 appearances.

Johnston's link to Flamengo surprised many at the weekend, but the move had some sense to it. During a past loan spell with Portuguese side Vitoria de Guimaraes in 2022/23, Johnston had played under coach Jose Boto, who is now Flamengo's sporting director.