Sources: Leeds United make contact with West Ham over January deal, Burnley man on radar too

Follow us on Google Discover

• EXCLUSIVE from Graeme Bailey

Leeds United are in the market for a right-back with Ben Johnson of West Ham United and Burnley’s Connor Roberts in the sights of the Championship challengers.

HITC Football understands that a right-sided full-back is high on Daniel Farke’s wishlist this month. Leeds United terminated Djed Spence’s loan deal last week, before sending the long-serving Luke Ayling to Middlesbrough. 

And though teen sensation Archie Gray has been a revelation in defence – and while Sam Byram can fill in comfortably if required – Leeds are looking to bring in an outside hire to strengthen Farke’s ranks.

HITC has been informed by sources close to Leeds that the Yorkshire giants have made contact with West Ham regarding a potential January deal for Ben Johnson.

The former England under-21 man is due to become a free-agent in the summer. As such, West Ham will likely be open to offers, especially considering that Johnson has played only twice under David Moyes in the Premier League this season.

We understand that Burnley’s Connor Roberts is another Leeds have looked at.

Once of Middlesbrough and Swansea City, the 53-time Wales international possesses vast experience in second-tier football. But, under contract until 2025 and still a key part of Vincent Kompany’s plans at Burnley, Johnson is believed to be the more likely addition of the two as far as Leeds are concerned.

The West Ham academy graduate would surely benefit from a fresh start, his development stagnating behind Vladimir Coufal at the London Stadium.

Luke Ayling leaves for Middlesbrough

“The most important thing about Ben is, whenever you pass him or meet him first thing in the morning, he’s got a smile on his face. He takes in all the knowledge you can pass on to him,” former Hammers coach Stuart Pearce told the BBC of Johnson back in 2021.

“He’s a wonderful professional to deal with and work with. We’re very proud to have him out of our academy system as well, which is a real plus for us, especially with the connection to this club with the academy.”