“Good bye Archie Gray?” Leeds lining up bargain early move to sign a “wonderful” replacement for Archie Gray

Leeds United is lining up a move for West Ham United defender Ben Johnson on a free transfer, according to Football Insider. Johnson’s contract at West Ham expires this month, and Leeds are keen to sign him as a potential replacement for Archie Gray, who has been linked with a £50m+ move to Bayern Munich.

Johnson, 24, has been a bit-part player for West Ham this season, starting just four games in the league and averaging only 39 minutes per match. However, he has proven his worth to the Hammers cause over his five years in the senior ranks, helping himself to two Young Player of the Year accolades and glowing praise from the likes of Stuart Pearce, who described him as a “wonderful professional”.

Johnson’s versatility is one of his key strengths, having played in various positions across the back four and midfield for West Ham. He has looked most comfortable at right-back, where he has started two of his four Premier League games this season. However, he has also shown his assuredness playing in midfield down the right flank, as seen in his display against Manchester United in February.

Leeds United manager Daniel Farke is keen to sign Johnson as a potential replacement for Gray, who has been a key player for Leeds this season. Gray’s versatility and ability to play in various positions have made him a valuable asset to the team, and Farke believes Johnson can fill a similar role.

Johnson’s ability to cross the ball into the box is also seen as a major asset, with Leeds striker Joel Piroe having scored several goals this season by latching onto crosses. Piroe’s goal in the 4-0 demolition of Norwich City in the play-offs was a prime example of this, and Farke believes Johnson can provide similar service to the striker.

While Leeds will be worse off without Gray, signing Johnson on a free transfer could be a shrewd piece of business. Johnson’s versatility and ability to play in various positions make him an attractive signing for Leeds, and his experience in the Premier League is also a major plus.

Leeds United’s new Red Bull deal could also provide the funds necessary to sign Johnson, with the club looking to strengthen their squad ahead of next season’s promotion push. Farke is keen to build a team that can challenge for promotion, and signing players like Johnson could be key to achieving that goal.

In conclusion, Leeds United’s move for Ben Johnson is a smart piece of business that could pay dividends next season. Johnson’s versatility and ability to play in various positions make him an attractive signing, and his experience in the Premier League is also a major plus. With Leeds looking to strengthen their squad ahead of next season’s promotion push, signing Johnson on a free transfer could be a shrewd piece of business.