Ipswich Town: Ben Johnson to sign as Vaclav Hladky contract expires
The versatile right-back, who turned down a new long-term contract at West Ham to become a free agent, has agreed terms and passed a medical with the Blues.
The 24-year-old will become the second summer signing since promotion to the Premier League was secured following last night’s announcement that former loan star Omari Hutchinson had returned to the club from Chelsea in a £18m deal.
Johnson, 24, has made 38 starts and 31 sub appearances in the Premier League for the Hammers over the last six years, also featuring heavily in the Europa League and Europa Conference League.
Meanwhile, last season’s first-choice goalkeeper Vaclav Hladky is set to depart the club after his contract formally expired today.
The Czech stopper, who was a key man as Town secured Championship promotion, has been in negotiations with the club about a new contract since January.
Town’s players returned for the start of pre-season training this morning, with only one friendly match – at home to Fortuna Dusseldorf on July 27 – having so far been announced ahead of the big kick-off against Liverpool, at Portman Road, on August 17.
READ MORE;
Euro Star Calafiori as Dawson’s Heir Apparent?
West Ham United appear to have found a potential solution to their defensive woes in the form of rising Italian star Riccardo Calafiori, according to The Guardian.
Lets face it, we do need a strong, traditional centre-back, a role the excellent Craig Dawson previously filled admirably for West Ham. His absence has been felt in recent seasons, and the Hammers are determined to find a worthy successor.
While not a household name before Euro 2024, Calafiori has impressed on the big stage, showcasing his talent and potential. He’s considered a future star for Italy, a country with a rich history of world-class central defenders. But not the case against their recent game against Switzerland!
Calafiori played a key role in Bologna’s historic achievement of qualifying for the Champions League for the first time. His consistent performances throughout the season have not gone unnoticed.
The Guardian reports that West Ham are hesitant to meet Wolves’ asking price for Max Kilman. However, Calafiori could be available for a more manageable £35 million, making him a potentially more attractive option for the Hammers.
His young age, impressive resume, and affordable price tag make him a compelling target. Whether he can replicate his Euro 2024 form and become Dawson’s long-term successor remains to be seen, but he certainly seems to possess the qualities the Hammers are looking for.
