West Ham set to lose millions on Johnson deal

Everton are one of several clubs looking to “snap up” Ben Johnson, as the defender plans to reject a last-ditch effort by West Ham to retain him. Despite the Hammers offering a new deal, it appears too little, too late for Johnson, who has been with the club since age eight.

According to a report from May 10, West Ham is poised to lose the versatile full-back on a free transfer after multiple unsuccessful attempts to secure a contract extension. Johnson, 24, intends to explore free agency with several clubs eager to sign him once his contract ends.

Everton is joined by Crystal Palace, Rangers, Southampton, and Wolves in pursuing the Englishman, whose departure from London Stadium seems almost certain.

Johnson was seeking a weekly wage of £50,000, including bonuses, to sign a contract extension, but he remains West Ham’s lowest-paid senior player. He also hoped for more consistent playing time in the first team. Despite delivering strong performances off the bench, David Moyes hasn’t provided Johnson the regular game time he desires.