Claret and Hugh claim that West Ham United is adamant about offloading adaptable defender Ben Johnson in the January transfer window.
The newspaper stated on its website on Saturday, January 13, that despite interest from Leeds United and formerly Everton, the Irons are eager to have the 23-year-old off their books at the London Stadium permanently this month.
Johnson’s representatives and the defender have not backed down from their wage demands, which are believed to be in the region of £60,000 per week, despite Johnson being given a new deal to prolong his stay in East London.
Reports emerged from Phil Hay (11 January) that Daniel Farke’s side are keen on signing the defender on a loan deal this month as they are impressed by Johnson’s ability to cover either side at full-back or even in a midfield role if required.
Determined to sell
With Johnson’s contract at the London Stadium set to expire at the end of the season, there is very little incentive for the Hammers to loan him out to Leeds for the remainder of the season as he will be a free agent come the end of the deal.
West Ham hopes to generate some much-needed money during the January transfer window so they can bolster their own team. For the Hammers, a permanent departure from the team—even for a small payment—would be preferable than a loan arrangement.
Even though it would leave David Moyes without cover, it would be best for all sides if the 23-year-old found a new permanent home away from East London if he has made it as obvious as has been claimed that he doesn’t wish to extend his present deal with the Irons.
West Ham doesn’t want to pay the salary of a player who isn’t interested in being a part of the London Stadium project, so maybe an agreement will be reached sooner rather than later to see Leeds sign the defender.
