Rangers are reportedly waiting to pounce on defender Ben Johnson after it emerged he is set to reject a new contract offer from West Ham United.
According to TEAMtalk, the 24-year-old is poised to become a free agent this summer after declining West Ham’s final attempt to extend his contract. Rangers are one of several clubs credited with interest in the versatile defender, who can play across the backline and even further forward.
Johnson’s availability has sparked a transfer race, with Premier League sides Tottenham Hotspur and potential Champions League qualifiers Aston Villa also circling. The competition for Johnson’s signature could prove fierce, especially considering Rangers’ financial limitations compared to their Premier League rivals.
However, Rangers might have a compelling argument for Johnson. Dujon Sterling’s arrival last year highlighted the club’s defensive injury woes, forcing him to play out of position. James Tavernier, the current starting right-back, has also been linked with a move away, potentially opening a starting spot for Johnson.
With regular playing time a potential concern for Johnson, Rangers could offer him a more prominent role than he enjoyed under David Moyes at West Ham. However, Johnson’s Premier League options might prove too tempting to ignore, despite Rangers’ interest since January.