Ipswich Town have reportedly scuppered West Ham’s plans to keep Ben Johnson by likely winning the player’s signature.
According to HITC, Ipswich Town are set to sign Ben Johnson on a free transfer as he will likely leave West Ham on July 1 when his contract there expires. The Hammers were hopeful of keeping the versatile defender, but the Tractor Boys are getting their hands on a promising player with top-flight experience.
Ben Johnson to join Ipswich Town?
West Ham United and Ben Johnson have been discussing a new deal for the best part of two years now, with neither party being able to agree on fresh terms. In that process, the defender has seen his contract wind up at the London Stadium, but the Hammers were hopeful of securing the versatile defender on a new long-term deal amid concerted interest from elsewhere.
West Ham believed they had Johnson in the bag, but in a recent twist, the defender may have decided to move on and join newly-promoted Ipswich Town. The report also highlights how new Hammers boss Julen Lopetegui held talks with Johnson to prove assurances over his role and stated that he would be an important part of the team in the new season.
Yet, Johnson may have felt that joining Ipswich would benefit his playing career, as Kieran McKenna’s side are ready to offer him a starting spot and an important role ahead of the new season. The decision is a bad one for West Ham, who were hoping to keep the versatile defender and use his qualities in a long season ahead.
Ipswich keen on strengthening their squad
Naturally, for a newly-promoted side, they always tend to come into a Premier League season as the underdogs and probably the big favourites to go down back to the Championships. Ipswich are certainly in that boat, but McKenna is keen to prove doubters wrong and would seek decent funds to complete important signings.
Tottenham’s Joe Rodon remains a target, as much as Johnson, and he, too, packs decent experience in the Premier League. Then there are some other elements the manager would want, and he will be looking to improve his defensive ranks as much as possible.
They are also keen on Omari Hutchison after a tremendous loan sale last season from McKenna’s side. Any chance of bringing the Chelsea star would depend on the price the Blues want to sell the former Arsenal academy graduate.
