Phil Hay details how Leeds failed to sign West Ham ace Ben Johnson before 11pm deadline
Leeds United were interested in a last-gasp transfer for West Ham defender Ben Johnson but were knocked back over their enquiry, according to Phil Hay.
The Athletic journalist shared (2 February) that the Whites had taken a look at the English defender with his contract winding down in East London, however, the Premier League outfit wanted him to sign a new deal.
Leeds United as well as Crystal Palace were interested in the right-back but the Hammers did not entertain any enquiries as they wished for him to remain at the London Stadium beyond Thursday’s deadline.
The Whites finally announced the last-gasp transfer of Burnley defender Connor Roberts at Elland Road, joining on a temporary loan deal until the end of the season.
Hay wrote: “They took a look at Ben Johnson, with his contract running down rapidly, but West Ham want the 24-year-old to sign a new deal and had knocked back an enquiry from Crystal Palace about a permanent transfer earlier this week.”
Roberts relief
It was a pretty testing window for Leeds United given the FFP situation at the club and the mulling over several full-back targets that looked like real winners should Daniel Farke have completed them.
West Ham’s Johnson was certainly in that category given his profile, age, experience and potential and with the Whites desperately in search of a right-back, he fit the bill perfectly.
However, the Hammers’ stance was understandable and there was certainly nothing Leeds United could do about despite his contract winding down but they were forced to look elsewhere.
While some fans may argue that they stumbled upon the signing of Roberts, it’s important to note that the Burnley defender had been a long-term target and arguably the best option of the lot given his experience and know-how at Championship level.
Roberts knows what it takes to win promotion from the Championship having won the league with the Clarets last season and that knowledge could well be incredibly useful for a young Leeds United team.
He hasn’t played much this season so may need time to get sharpness and fitness back, but Farke will be getting an experienced professional into the squad in a time of need.
In other Leeds United news, Alan Brazil has shared his reaction after what he heard live on air about Roberts’ move to Elland Road.
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