Ben Johnson may now be handed new West Ham United contract
Ben Johnson could be set to sign a new contract at West Ham after he confessed he is happy to play whatever role the club want him to, despite speculation in January.
The transfer window was full of news surrounding the future of the left-back, with both Leeds United and Villarreal linked with possible moves, and Crystal Palace making official contact over a deal [David Ornstein, 30 January].
However, as shared by Ornstein in The Athletic, the Hammers plan to offer a new deal in the coming weeks to prevent him leaving when his current deal expires at the end of the season.
Speaking to the official West Ham website [6 February], Johnson shared: “I’m happy to play wherever the manager wants to put me. I used to play there when I was younger and I enjoy that role, but getting my bearings again in that position does take a little time.
“But I like to think I’m willing to learn and I can do that job. I want to fill in wherever the team needs me and do the best I can.”
West Ham contract set to be tabled for Johnston
Typically a full-back, able to play either on the right or the left-hand side, Johnson has started to show his versatility by stepping into midfield to solidify games with his energy and did so again despite a disappointing result against Manchester United.
That ability to fill in wherever needed for David Moyes could be the difference between a player who is cast aside and struggles to get into the team, and one the boss feels he can call upon to reinforce his setup when needed.
An increase in playing time at the London Stadium, and the opportunity to represent his boyhood club on a more consistent basis, suggests a new deal could well be on the cards now.
However, despite the seemingly positive reports surrounding the prospect of a new contract, and how highly the player has been speaking, it was reported [The Athletic, 19 January] that Johnson has already turned down two offers of new deals at the London Stadium.
It was also said that an increase in playing time, as he has received in recent weeks, could be what tempts him to stay, but with clear interest from teams both in the Premier League and beyond, his eye may be drawn elsewhere.
In other West Ham news, one key figure could be tempted to leave already.
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