The 24-year-old goalkeeper has impressed for the Championship promotion hopefuls and it was suggested Old Trafford chiefs could recall him this month before flogging him.

West Brom have been linked with a swoop for Johnstone but Mourinho is pleased with the progress he is making at Villa Park. 

“Sam Johnstone at Aston Villa is playing all the time and is an important player for them and they are going to fight for promotion,” the United boss said. 

“We are also happy to have him there.”

Johnstone’s United contract expires at the end of the season but an option for a further year is set to be taken up.

Aston Villa loanee Sam Johnstone's contract to be extended

He has been a key figure between the sticks for Villa, conceding just 24 goals in 27 league appearances. 

Steve Bruce previously said the club “will do everything in our power” to land Johnstone permanently.

“He is going to find it difficult at United to break through because of what they have got so we are hopeful,” he added.  

Back in November, Villa’s most famous fan Prince William ordered the club to seal a permanent deal for Johnstone.

“William is a big Villa fan and knew a lot,” Bruce said. 

“He was pleading with me to get Sam Johnstone tied up and make his deal permanent.

“We're pretty fortunate to have him as one of our big supporters.”

Johnstone has never made a senior appearance for United since breaking through the club’s youth ranks.