---
title: "Bruce expects signing over the weekend"
canonical: "https://readastonvilla.com/2017/07/07/bruce-expects-signing-over-the-weekend/"
type: "post"
language: "en-GB"
author: "Daniel Emery"
section: "Features & Analysis"
published: "2017-07-07T20:32:05Z"
modified: "2017-07-07T20:32:05Z"
---

# Bruce expects signing over the weekend

Aston Villa manager Steve Bruce is expecting to complete a signing over the weekend.

Bruce says that he is hoping to announce the arrival of Sam Johnstone from Manchester United.

Speaking to [Birmingham Mail](https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/sport/football/transfer-news/aston-villa-transfer-news-steve-13300872), Bruce said this:

> We hope to be able to announce something in the next 24/48 hours if we can. That would be ideal.

> It’s no big secret that I am still hoping we can tie up Sam Johnstone from Manchester United.

> I think that’s still ongoing but ultimately we have to respect Manchester United.

> I know they go on tour on Sunday. We will see what develops in the next 24/48 hours.

![Stu Forster/Getty Images Sport](https://media.readastonvilla.com/readastonvilla/2017/07/643794948.jpg)

It was reported yesterday that a decision is expected by the end of the week, with [Manchester United](https://readmanutd.com/)said to be holding the deal up.

United are yet to decide whether they want to keep Johnstone for next season but are likely to make a decision soon.

Villa have also been linked with an ambitious swoop for [Manchester City](https://readmancity.com/) goalkeeper Joe Hart.

However, Hart does not want to move down to the Championship and is waiting on other offers before even considering a switch to Villa.

It is claimed that Villa have made contact with City over a move for Hart, but are not as hopeful as they are on a deal for Johnstone.