AliousAccording to insider information from ExWHUEmployee, West Ham United are on the verge of securing Ben Johnson’s future by offering the defender a new five-year contract extension.
This development comes after reports last week suggested that head coach Julen Lopetegui was keen to retain Johnson’s services, viewing him as an integral part of his plans moving forward.
The versatile right-back, who graduated from the club’s academy, had impressed the previous coaching staff under Tim Stiedten, who actively encouraged him to commit his long-term future to the Hammers.
It is believed that Johnson would have been content signing a new deal last season, with wages rumored to be in the region of £45,000 to £50,000 per week.
However, concerns arose regarding the lack of first-team opportunities afforded to him by former manager David Moyes.
Despite impressing in cameo appearances off the bench, often being deployed out of position, Johnson rarely received an extended run in the starting lineup.
Surprisingly, despite making his debut against Manchester City under Manuel Pellegrini’s tutelage, the defender has never been given a consistent run in his preferred right-back role for the first team.
Despite performing well when called upon and West Ham’s defensive struggles at times, Johnson’s opportunities remained limited, even in games where the team conceded an excessive number of goals.
As Lopetegui aims to reshape the squad according to his vision, securing Johnson’s long-term commitment appears to be a priority for the new regime at the London Stadium.
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