Following Phil Hay’s revelation, Leeds may sign a “brilliant” upgrade for Luke Ayling.
Daniel Farke’s Leeds United won their first three games of 2024 by a combined score of 3-0. With the fixtures in the Championship’s first division coming thick and fast, Leeds United will be hoping to maintain this scorching start to the year.
After playing brilliantly in midfield during the FA Cup, Archie Gray was shifted back to right-back for the most recent 3-0 success over Cardiff City. It’s possible that Leeds lacked options down that flank after Luke Ayling’s departure was eventually confirmed to fellow second-tier team Middlesbrough.
Emotional farewells to the honourable Whites servant filled up social media when the news was finally confirmed, but Leeds won’t dally around in an attempt to find a replacement and an upgrade on their departing 32-year-old defender according to reports.
Leeds are just one of a number of clubs pursuing a deal for West Ham United defender Ben Johnson this month according to Football Insider, the Hammers full-back entering the final six months of his contract at the London Stadium and weighing up his options as a result.
Sheffield United, Southampton and Rangers are all interested in bringing the adaptable defender to their respective clubs, with Football Insider further revealing that Johnson has turned down a new contract from David Moyes’ outfit to try and push through a move.
Farkeand’s men will be hoping to quickly line up for Johnson’s services ahead of other suitors and will look to further strengthen the right-back.It also seems pointless to try and sign the short-lived star who was praised for his versatility at the Hammers as he can play anywhere at the back when needed..
