Exclusive: Ipswich Town ready to splash cash West Ham United defender

The Telegraph reports that Ipswich Town want to capture West Ham United defender Ben Johnson on a free transfer this summer.

The news outlet said on their website (22 June) that Kieran McKenna wants to sign the full-back to boost his defensive options following his promotion to the Premier League.

Johnson is free to depart at the end of the month when his contract expires, but the Hammers have given him a new five-year contract [The Athletic, 11 June] in an attempt to persuade him to stay for the new season.

West Ham clinging to hope to keep Ben Johnson

Johnson’s desire to leave the club for more regular first-team play has been well-known for some years, and he appears to be getting his way.

Under David Moyes, the 24-year-old was frequently utilized as a utility player, and his versatility proved to be both a curse and a blessing.

But he wants to be more settled and play more often, and with the Hammers unable to match his pay demands, it is unlikely that their partnership will last past the summer.

Other Premier League clubs are also interested in his talents, and while they may not be able to match his wage demands, they will almost likely offer him more consistent playing time.

West Ham are attempting to persuade him, like they did with Aaron Cresswell earlier this summer, but it is exceedingly improbable.