"Another round of talks" - Journalist drops big 2022 West Ham contract claim involving ace

West Ham United are expected to enter ‘another round of talks’ with Ben Johnson over a fresh long-term contract within the next 12 months, according to journalist Dean Jones.

Johnson came through the ranks with the Hammers and represented the east Londoners’ under-23s more than 50 times, but there are question marks over what the future holds for the right-back.

Johnson was unable to stop West Ham’s FA Cup run coming to an end as the Irons were beaten 3-1 by Premier League rivals Southampton in the fifth round last week, with the 22-year-old deployed in a right wing-back role.

His inclusion came days after The Athletic revealed West Ham had seen the offer of a new six-and-a-half year contract turned down by Johnson.

The report suggests the academy graduate rejected the proposal despite being happy at the London Stadium and the club will not look to revisit the negotiating table until early next year.

Johnson’s decision not to commit his long-term future to the Hammers has put Premier League rivals on red alert, with Spanish sources claiming Arsenal, Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur have taken a keen interest.

West Ham were keen to tie Johnson down to a lengthy deal due to his original agreement being due to expire at the end of the season but, following the setback, they have elected to take up the additional two-year option within his contract.

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Jones believes West Ham are still eager to see Johnson commit his long-term future to the club after seeing him progress through the ranks and into David Moyes’ first-team plans.

The transfer insider feels the Hammers will be patient after a prior agreement in the full-back’s contract allowed them