Leeds United are still in the race to sign West Ham defender Ben Johnson.
The Whites are about to enter a tricky transfer window where they will have to operate on a tight budget after failing to secure promotion last season.
Leeds were heavily linked with a move for Johnson in the January window but a potential move didn’t happen. David Moyes wanted him to stay at West Ham.
He is out of contract at the end of this month, and the Hammers have now offered him an improved five-year deal.
According to a report from The Athletic (live blog, 11 May), Johnson is considering all his options. Rangers and Crystal Palace are also keen to sign him.
“West Ham United have offered Ben Johnson a new and improved five-year deal,” wrote Roshane Thomas for The Athletic.
“The 24-year-old full-back is out of contract at the end of this month and has attracted interest from Crystal Palace, Leeds United and Rangers.
“The versatile defender has rejected multiple contract offers from West Ham, but they have offered Johnson improved terms to convince him to commit his long-term future to the club. Johnson is considering all his options.”
Ben Johnson to Leeds United – highly unlikely
Leeds signed Connor Roberts in the January window on loan from Burnley but they have decided not to move for him permanently.
Johnson would be a terrific signing for the Whites. He is a vastly experienced Premier League defender who can play in multiple positions.
He has dropped down the pecking order at West Ham behind Vladimir Coufal, but the new offer presented could persuade him to stay put beyond the summer.
It would be really difficult for Leeds to persuade him to join Elland Road. Why would he want to play in the Championship when he can stay in the Premier League or move to Scotland?
Daniel Farke would love to sign someone who can play as a centre-back and also as a full-back, and Johnson fits the bill.
While Johnson hasn’t decided about his next move, he is unlikely to move to Elland Road this summer.
