EXCLUSIVE: Leeds also exploring deal to sign 23yr-old West Ham full-back on loan alongside Connor Roberts as Daniel Farke looks to bolster defensive options after Ayling & Djed Spence exit at Elland Road

Leeds United have reportedly set their sights on a loan move for West Ham’s Ben Johnson.

The Whites let Djed Spence and Luke Ayling leave Elland Road this month, so they could do with some defensive replacements.

According to The Athletic, Leeds are now looking at Johnson, who is currently struggling for game time at the London Stadium.

The 23-year-old has come through the ranks at West Ham and has made 93 appearances for the club, registering two goals and two assists. However, Johnson has slipped down the pecking order at the club. He has just six senior outings under his belt this term.

In addition, he is also out of contract at the end of the season, and it remains to be seen what the future holds for him at the club. With that in mind, Leeds may well fancy their chances of bringing the former England Under-21 full-back to Elland Road this month.

According to the report, the Whites are also looking at Nottingham Forest’s Neco Williams, although the Reds are said to be reluctant to let him leave.

Burnley’s Connor Roberts is also reportedly on Leeds’ radar. He has fallen behind Vitinho in the pecking order at last season’s Championship winners.

Leeds will fancy their chances of signing Ben Johnson. Johnson is a very talented young player who has earned praise from numerous peers, including Declan Rice and Stuart Pearce.

He can play both at right-back and at left-back, which would make him a versatile option for Farke.

All in all, Johnson looks like a great shout for Leeds. This certainly looks like a solid lead, so let’s see how the Whites get on in the coming weeks.

L