West Ham United defender Ben Johnson is one of numerous soon-to-be out of contract stars to have been linked with Leeds United this summer.
The free agent market is certainly somewhere in which Leeds should be looking to strengthen their squad, with an abundance of quality from both the Premier League and Championship set to become available.
Fulham’s Bobby De Cordova-Reid is among the names reportedly on Leeds’ list, while Coventry City star Callum O’Hare is also said to be a target.
Neither of those players are yet to agree on fresh terms at their current clubs and Leeds could therefore swoop in by the end of the month to sign them on frees.
But West Ham’s Johnson is a player who has been on Leeds’ radar throughout 2024 after they tried to sign him on loan in January without success.
Johnson decision on new West Ham deal is boost for Leeds
Johnson has so far rejected multiple offers of a new long-term deal at West Ham, and the clock is now ticking on them being able to sign him to fresh terms.
It was reported earlier this week a new five-year-deal is on the table from the Hammers, but at this point, it remains unsigned.
And according to Sky Sports, there is a clear reason why Johnson is still holding off, which could boost Leeds and other potential suitors.
It is said Johnson’s decision on his future will ‘not be financially motivated’ and instead more focused on where he could go and play regular football.
He started just four Premier League games all season for West Ham and clearly he is seeking assurances from them that he will be playing regularly.
With West Ham also out of Europe for the first time in three seasons, there will be less opportunities for game time at the London Stadium, which certainly makes things more interesting.
Leeds must now try tempt Johnson into Championship move
Right-back is most definitely an area that needs strengthening this summer after Connor Roberts’ return to Burnley and uncertainty over whether he can be signed permanently.
Sam Byram is currently the only recognised right-back on Leeds’ books after triggering a one-year extension last week, but he simply cannot be relied on week in, week out.
And while Leeds may not be able to meet the financial package West Ham can offer Johnson, there is clearly a more obvious path to playing regularly at Elland Road.
If reports are true that finances will not play a big part in his decision, surely Leeds have a decent chance of prising him to the Championship.
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