Ben Johnson exit timeline emerges at West Ham United after new contract developments

Clarity will emerge around Ben Johnson's long-term future at West Ham United by the end of the week, according to GiveMeSport.

The outlet reported on its website on Monday (3 June) that the Hammers are fighting a losing battle to keep the versatile defender at the London Stadium and they have become resigned to the fact he will leave in the coming days.

A number of other clubs are interested in securing the 24-year-old on a free transfer with Crystal Palace considered the current favourites while Southampton and Rangers also remain a potential option.

This update emerged only hours after Sky Sports presenter Rob Wotton (3 June) reported that the Irons were still in contract talks with Johnson despite interest from clubs in Italy, England and Scotland holding an interest in his services.

Will Ben Johnson leave West Ham United during the summer transfer window?

This summer has already been one of plenty of drama at West Ham, with incoming transfers falling through, and players being linked with moves away, all while Julen Lopetegui attempts to put his own stamp on the squad.

The former Real Madrid manager appears ready to make a number of changes to the squad left in East London by David Moyes and that includes moving players both in and out of the London Stadium before the start of pre-season.

Johnson may not have ever been able to hold down a consistent place in the Hammers' starting XI, but his adaptability and versatility means that he is a manager's dream and that will continue to be the case under Lopetegui if he signs on the dotted line.

But this latest update makes it sound incredibly unlikely that the Englishman will agree on new terms, with the Irons appearing to have already resigned themselves to defeat before a decision has been made.

Hopefully, clarity will emerge sooner rather than later so Lopetegui knows whether or not he needs to sign another defender.

In other West Ham news, Jarrod Bowen has been told that he could be axed from Gareth Southgate's England squad for Euro 2024

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