STEVE BRUCE is going back to Manchester United to sign keeper Sam Johnstone for Aston Villa.

Bruce has agreed a loan deal for respected reserve Johnstone who will be his number one at Villa Park.

4 Johnstone is set to be the number one at Villa Park Credit: PA:Press Association Archive

Johnstone has been on loan before in his Old Trafford career but this will be his biggest club yet and could lead to a permanent switch.

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Bruce has been unhappy with his two keepers and Johnstone will go into the side.

Pierluigi Gollini was brought in from Hellas Verona in summer and competes with Mark Bunn for the number one spot, while Jed Steer has been ruled out for months.

4 Johnstone impressed on loan at Preston last season Credit: PA:Press Association

4 Steve Bruce is looking for a new first choice goalkeeper Credit: Getty Images

4 Pierluigi Gollini has failed to impress the new Villa Park boss Credit: Getty Images

Johnstone has been left on the fringes at United this season after a successful spell at Preston. Wigan were also keen but Villa won the race for him.

The Villa chief wants to shake up his side and is also after a new striker, a centre half and midfielder. But a couple will also leave.

Bruce is said to be competing with Derby for the signing of Middlesbrough striker Jordan Rhodes while Rudy Gestede could head in the other direction with Aitor Karanka keen to bring him to the Riverside.