Leeds United: Southampton twist emerges in hunt to sign West Ham United ace Ben Johnson
Leeds United have maintained an interest in out-of-contract Ben Johnson from West Ham United with Southampton now tracking him, according to the Sunday Mirror.
The newspaper reported on Sunday (21 April, page 71) that the 24-year-old is still yet to be tied down to a new contract with the Hammers.
James Nursey said that David Moyes is "keen to hold on to the versatile defender" but it appears that the Englishman wants a move away from the London Stadium.
Crystal Palace and Ipswich Town are battling against the Whites for his signature. Now Southampton and Russell Martin have entered the race.
Should Leeds United sign Ben Johnson?
It is little wonder that Johnson wants a move away from the London Stadium given he has started just four games this season.
According to FotMob, he has featured in 493 minutes across just 13 games and is yet to register a goal or an assist.
This has seen him feature as a full-back as well as a midfielder where he has performed well when given the chance.
Due to his lack of minutes, his stats are affected. According to Fbref, he wins 1.62 aerial duels, makes 2.74 progressive passes and takes one shot per 90. These stats reflect a player who is versatile and likes to get up and down the pitch where he can.
Whether Leeds are promoted or remain in the Championship, Johnson could certainly be a useful option for Daniel Farke.
With Connor Roberts going back to Burnley at the end of the season, there will be a need for a replacement full-back. Given that Burnley are likely to be relegated from the Premier League, he could stay with the Clarets.
On a free transfer, he could prove to be a very shrewd bit of business by the Whites in the summer transfer window.
In other Leeds United news, Leicester battling it out to sign new midfielder from Premier League outfit.
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