Ipswich Town have reportedly scuppered West Ham’s plans to keep Ben Johnson by potentially securing the player’s signature.
According to HITC, Ipswich Town are prepared to sign Ben Johnson on a free transfer as he is likely to leave West Ham on July 1 when his contract expires.
The Hammers hope to keep hold of the versatile defender, but the Tractor Boys have secured a promising player with top experience.
Will Ben Johnson join Ipswich Town?
West Ham United and Ben Johnson have been discussing a new deal for almost two years now with neither side able to agree new terms.
In the process, the defender’s contract ended at the London Stadium, but the Hammers are hoping to secure the versatile defender on a new long-term deal amid interest from elsewhere.
West Ham thought they had Johnson in the bag, but in recent developments, the defender may have decided to leave and join newly promoted Ipswich Town.
The report also highlights how new Hammers boss Julen Lopetegui has spoken to Johnson to reassure him of his role and says he will be an important part of the squad in the new season.
However, Johnson may have thought that joining Ipswich would benefit his playing career, with Kieran McKenna’s side ready to offer him a starting place and a key role before the new season.
The decision is bad for West Ham, who are hoping to keep hold of the versatile defender and utilize his qualities in the long season ahead.
Ipswich want to strengthen squad Of course, for a newly promoted team, they always tend to go into a Premier League season as underdogs and perhaps favorites best to return to the Championships.
Ipswich are certainly on that boat, but McKenna wants to prove the doubters wrong and is said to be looking for decent capital to complete some big-money signings.
Tottenham’s Joe Rodon remains a target, as does Johnson, and he also has decent experience in the Premier League.
Then there are other factors that the manager wants and he will be looking to improve his defense as much as possible.
They also like Omari Hutchison after his excellent loan move from McKenna last season.
The opportunity to recruit the Chelsea star will depend on how much the Blues want to sell the former Arsenal academy student for.
