West Ham boss Julen Lopetegui wants to keep Ben Johnson. That’s what Claret & Hugh have been told exclusively this evening confirming the new head coach is keen to retain the services of the long-time Hammers servant.
We spoke to our top source at the club within the last hour when we approached them to ask about reports suggesting West Ham and Johnson were in talks over a new contract.
The academy graduate’s Hammers contract expires within the next couple of weeks and there has been interest from Wolves, Rangers, Crystal Palace and an undisclosed Bundesliga club.
It had been expected that Johnson would leave having rejected previous offers, however it appears backing of the new head coach has swayed his thinking.
The versatile defender was seldomly used by former manager David Moyes and it’s understood that Johnson was desperate for a run in the first team to prove himself.
Therefore, it was encouraging to head our top source at West Ham tell us, “We’re in talks with the player and the new manager likes him”.
What a bit of good news.
Glad to hear he is wanted by the new manager. Unlike the sad Mr Moyes, who is unable to improve the players under his care, except for his favourites.
Hope it works out good for Johnson and West Ham.
He is really good lad with enormous raw talent, which can be polished to bring out the very best in the lad.
Our prayers and well wishes to the lad and the club.
Fingers crossed that Ben stays with the Irons. He really is a home grown talent and was seriously under utilised by the Moyesaurus.