
Everton are keen on a move to sign West Ham defender Ben Johnson, according to a report from Claret and Hugh.
Amid reports of the £550million deal being on the brink of collapse, it seems Everton’s proposed takeover is going ahead as planned.
Sean Dyche really needs help in the transfer market and 777 Partners can provide the Toffees’ manager with funds to bolster the squad.
According to the reliable Hammers source, Everton are keen to sign the 23-year-old defender who is likely to leave next summer.
Johnson has been offered a new contract by the club, but he hasn’t signed a new deal.
Southampton and Luton Town are also interested in signing the defender, who has made 88 appearances since breaking into the senior team in 2018/19.
Good move?
Johnson is a versatile defender who can play across the backline.
He made a big impression in the 2020/21 season and stepped things up during the following campaign.
Johnson made 34 appearances in all competitions the following season but has been troubled with injuries since then.
Emerson and Vladimir Coufal are first-choice options for David Moyes on both flanks, and Johnson hasn’t been able to nail down a first-team place.
He is yet to feature in the Premier League this season, and a move away from the club looks likely.
Everton need a long-term replacement for veteran defender Seamus Coleman, and Johnson could be a smart signing for them.
He has a contract at the London Stadium until 2024, and the Hammers probably won’t stand in his way if they receive a good offer.
