West Ham United defender Ben Johnson has held talks with the club over a new contract but there is no progress with his representatives yet, according to insider Claret and Hugh.
The Lowdown: Johnsonâs instant impact
The 22-year-old has made his name in the Premier League after clocking up 64 first-team appearances, but is currently on the sidelines due to sustaining an injury against Aston Villa last month.
The right-back still has two years remaining on his current deal at the London Stadium but wonât be short of potential suitors given his age and versatility, so it comes as no surprise to learn that the Irons are looking to tie him down for the long-term.
The Latest: West Ham locked in talks
According to Claret and Hugh, West Ham have been âtalkingâ to Johnsonâs representatives over fresh terms for âseveral monthsâ, but they are âno closerâ to reaching an agreement as it stands.
Itâs reported that GSBK âmay re-open negotiationsâ approaching Christmas, but it will take a âbig improvementâ in the clubâs league position to help discussions progress further.
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The Verdict: Get it done
Johnson earning a new contract in the capital would be nothing less than he deserves after making a real positive impression since his breakthrough under David Moyes.
The London-born gem, dubbed âphenomenalâ by football talent scout Jacek Kulig, averaged 2.5 clearances and 1.7 tackles per top-flight game last season (WhoScored), and has the ability to operate at centre-back as well as on the flank.
Johnson is an England U21 international and has a promising future ahead of him, which West Ham will be hoping is continued with their guidance in years to come.
