Red tape hits Leeds United transfer push for Ben Johnson in January window

Conor Coventry's departure from West Ham could hinder Leeds United in any bid for Ben Johnson in this January transfer window, according to The Mirror.

The newspaper reported via its website [13 January] that, with Coventry having been one of David Moyes' eight home-grown talents in his 24-man squad, Johnson and Danny Ings' exits from London Stadium could be blocked.

It is understood that Leeds are interested in a loan deal for the Hammers right-back following their own departure of club legend Luke Ayling, in addition to reoccurring injuries this season.

Johnson still counts as a homegrown player in east London as red tape emerges around any possible deal, with the Hammers also set to step up their push to sign the well-known Jack Clarke to help matters this month.

Patience is key

With Johnson's contract running out at the end of the current campaign, it might be easier for Leeds to wait until the summer transfer window to get the West Ham man into Elland Road.

Although Daniel Farke looks desperate for a brand-new full-back, many defenders are better than Johnson. The 23-year-old has been shunned by Moyes for most parts of this season, mainly playing with the Under 23s squad.

And despite boasting 93 appearances at senior level for the Hammers since June 2017, it seems his time at the club is coming to a close, with no news about a potential contract extension.

Djed Spence is an example of a full-back with more talent than the West Ham defender. However, his attitude is likely to have cost him his final six months with Leeds as they push for promotion to the Premier League. Instead, he will be playing football in Italy after being used as leverage in a deal for Genoa's Radu Dragusin.

Farke needs to be patient in his search for a new full-back. If he is picky enough to allow Spence to leave without a replacement lined up, and then allow Ayling to depart, he should take his time in selecting a new option.

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