Rangers transfer news as West Ham United defender Ben Johnson emerges as January target
Rangers are one of a number of clubs interested in signing West Ham defender Ben Johnson, according to Sean Whetstone.
The Six Foot Two editor provided on an update on soon-to-be out-of-contract Johnson on his personal Twitter page on Saturday (13 January)
Leeds United, Sheffield United and Southampton are also said to be weighing up a move for the ex-England Under-21s international, who started eight times for the Irons in their run to Europa Conference League success last season
West Ham either want to land a fee for Johnson this month, or they could instead ask a club to pay a loan sum and his wages.
Johnson has fallen out of favour at West Ham, but he was previously hailed as a “wonderful professional” by Stuart Pearce [BBC Sport].
Jack of all trades
The most notable aspect about Johnson’s game is his versatility, having played on both sides of defence for West Ham this season.
David Moyes has previously described the defender as a “utility player”, which has its positives but also its drawbacks.
The negative side of that is that Johnson can be considered a jack of all trades, a master of none, given he barely plays for the Irons.
A new left-back is clearly on Rangers’ radar, and someone who can also fill in on the right when James Tavernier’s absent would also be nice.
At the same time, a specialist is needed – a player who can hit the ground running and help the Gers to achieve their targets for the season.
The fact that Johnson is wanted by some other high-profile clubs, and is available for a small fee, makes this move a little more tempting.
However, given Johnson’s specialist position is at right-back, and his wages are reportedly not on the small side, it is best to look elsewhere.
In other Rangers news, a reliable journalist has shared his thoughts on the Jesse Lingard to Ibrox transfer murmurings.