Transfer talks ‘opened’ with Rangers as Philippe Clement targets West Ham defender

The 24-year-old defender is available on a free transfer at the end of the summer.

Rangers have reportedly opened transfer talks with West Ham defender Ben Johnson about a possibility of making a summer switch.

The right-back, 24, has been with the Hammers since 2017 and has made over 100 appearances but is out of contract in the summer and Gers will hope to persuade him to pen a deal with them.

The former England under-21s international was part of the side that won the European Championships last year.

Philippe Clement is expected to make significant changes to his squad at Ibrox this summer and The Athletic is reporting he has opened discussions with Johnson.

However, he is expected to face strong competition for the player with Leeds and Crystal Palace also credited with an interested. West Ham rejected a £1million offer from Wolves for Johnson in January.

The Englishman has played 22 times for David Moyes’ team this campaign, 14 in the Premier League.

It comes amid rumours Steven Gerrard is lining up an Al-Ettifaq double swoop for Connor Goldson and James Tavernier, but the latter dropped a hint he would be sticking around for a testimonial year.

Even if the captain is still at Rangers next season, signing Johnson as a bit of competition could still be an option with Dujon Sterling being used in various other positions.