Rangers are in talks with West Ham United defender Ben Johnson, according to The Athletic. The 24-year-old is out of contract at the end of the season and has reportedly rejected multiple renewal offers. Johnson is also attracting interest from Premier League rivals Crystal Palace and Leeds United.
The 24-year-old academy graduate has made 109 appearances for West Ham United, scoring two goals since his debut in 2018. Johnson also represented England at the U21 level, lifting the European Championships.
With his contract at the Olympic Stadium expiring in June, Rangers manager Philippe Clement has reportedly initiated talks to bring Johnson to Govan on a free transfer. However, Rangers are not alone in their pursuit of Johnson. Crystal Palace and Leeds United are also believed to be interested in the defender. West Ham reportedly rejected a £1 million bid from Wolverhampton Wanderers for Johnson during the January transfer window.
Record Sport reveals that Johnson is likely to join Crystal Palace in the English Premier League, under new Eagles boss Oliver Glasner, making him their first signing.
Ben Johnson is a versatile player who can operate on both the left and right sides of defense. He has even played as a center-back on occasion for West Ham. This versatility makes him a potentially astute signing for Rangers, considering the age of James Tavernier and the uncertainties surrounding Borna Barisic and Ridvan Yilmaz.
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At just 24 years old, Johnson represents a long-term investment for the future. He has the potential to develop into a key player for Rangers and contribute to their success in the years to come.