Preston, QPR and Wolves are among interested second-tier clubs

Johnstone is behind David de Gea and Sergio Romero in pecking order

Manchester United are poised to spark a six-club scramble for 22-year-old goalkeeper Sam Johnstone.

Manager Louis van Gaal is ready to let the former England Under 20 stopper leave Old Trafford, with David de Gea and Sergio Romero ahead of him in the pecking order.

Johnstone was expecting to go out on loan last month but that move was called off as Van Gaal took stock of his squad.

Manchester United reserve goalkeeper Sam Johnstone is expected to leave the club in January

Johnstone started the campaign as back up to Sergio Romero (centre) but has since fallen down pecking order

The player was on loan at Preston last season and they are keen to sign him, with Sunderland poised to recall Jordan Pickford from Deepdale.

However, Wolves, Bristol City, Reading, Huddersfield and Queens Park Rangers are also interested.

Johnstone started the season as deputy to Romero but was soon demoted after De Gea committed his future to the Old Trafford outfit.