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Leeds United keen to sign West Ham defender Ben Johnson

Leeds United are showing keen interest in signing West Ham defender Ben Johnson on loan deal for the rest of the season, according to a report from The Athletic

The 23-year-old is a “versatile” defender who has progressed through the youth ranks at the Hammers. The highly-rated defender has made 92 first-team appearances for West Ham but his future has come under intense speculation in recent weeks.

Johnson established himself as an important player under David Moyes, but this season, it has been a different story. He has started just one Premier League game this season, and he is yet to sign a contract extension at the club.

Leeds are looking to add depth at the back, with Charlie Creswell’s future now under serious doubt. Johnson is comfortable in either full-back role and has played in midfield previously.

West Ham probably haven’t given up on him as yet, and a loan move away could do a world of good to his confidence. At Elland Road, he is expected to start regularly and can make a big difference, given his experience and quality.

Leeds transfer window so far

The Athletic adds that the Whites have also monitored Wales international Neco Williams but it won’t be easy to prise him away from Nottingham Forest.

Recently, it has been claimed that the Whites have kept Connor Roberts of Burnley on their radar.

The Yorkshire have agreed a loan deal with Middlesbrough for full-back Luke Ayling. His contract is up in the summer, and it means the long-serving defender may have already played his last game for the club.

Djed Spence has also left Elland Road to return to the parent club Tottenham. With Everton and Southampton also showing keen interest in signing Johnson, Leeds need to come up with a good offer to bring him to Elland Road.

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