By Craig Scott

10th Aug, 2021 | 4:10pm

Brennan Johnson at contract impasse with Nottm Forest amid Leeds United interest

Leeds United have been handed the perfect opportunity to pounce on a deal to sign Nottingham Forest forward Brennan Johnson.

In June, The Athletic reported that Leeds are among the clubs who have shown an interest in the 20-year-old Wales international after he shone while on loan at Lincoln City last season.

Johnson scored 13 goals and supplied 14 assists in 48 appearances across all competitions for Lincoln last term and started this season in a similar vein of form by setting up Lyle Taylor’s goal for Nottingham Forest in their defeat to Coventry at the weekend.

As you can see in the clip above, Johnson showcased a stunning turn of pace as he burst forward from his own half and into the Coventry penalty area before finding Taylor with an inch-perfect pass.

Leeds’ interest in Johnson is no surprise after all. There are definite shades of Dan James about this young sensation.

And it may not be too difficult to land the Welsh dazzler either with The Athletic now reporting that talks over a new deal at the City Ground have hit a stalemate.

While they claim that both parties are keen on sealing a new contract for Johnson, it is understood that the forward wants a release clause amid interest from a number of Premier League clubs.

There’s also said to be a dispute over the length of the contract Johnson wants, with the club aiming for a four or five-year deal.

Forest are said to value Johnson at £10million as things stands and if a release clause is included in his new contract, it would have to be a “significant” figure.

Either way, that’s a fee Leeds should be able to afford and it’s one they should not hesitate to spend because this 20-year-old is starting to look as though he’s the real deal.

Marcelo Bielsa would improve him leaps and bounds and would definitely strengthen his options in the wide areas by landing the Forest ace.

In other Leeds United news, a pundit expects this 22-year-old to quit Elland Road this summer as he trains alone.