West Ham in talks with Ben Johnson over new deal
West Ham have started discussions with defender Ben Johnson over handing him a new and improved contract, according to Claret and Hugh.
The 21-year-old has been brilliant for the Hammers so far this season, and while he still has an option of a two-year extension in his deal that expires next summer, he could be getting a long-term contract that could keep him at the London Stadium for the next four or five seasons.
The Hammers are deep in talks with Johnson’s representatives, with Claret and Hugh reporting that they were provided with the contract update on Tuesday morning (30 November).
They wrote on their website today (30 November): “We were told this morning that talks between Ben and his representatives had started as the club looks to tie down its major players.”
Huge
Johnson was not in David Moyes’ starting XI heading into 2021-22, but an injury to Vladimir Coufal has seen him establish himself as the Irons’ first-choice right-back, with the Czech Republic international finding it tough to get back his spot.
The versatile full-back has impressed the West Ham boss, who dubbed him ‘fabulous’ after the 1-0 win over Tottenham Hotspur in October [Football.London], with a goal to his name in 11 games across all competitions so far this season.
With Aaron Cresswell set to miss Wednesday’s (1 December) clash with Brighton and Hove Albion at the London Stadium, Moyes could be tempted to play Johnson at left-back if he opts against handing Arthur Masuaku a place in the starting XI.
The youngster is finally beginning to fulfil his huge potential, and if he continues at this rate, he could start knocking on the door of Gareth Southgate’s squad ahead of next year’s World Cup.
In other West Ham news, an amazing attacker is making personal arrangements for Hammers switch in January.
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