'Signed and sealed' - Leeds United and Rangers beaten to transfer of 'talented' West Ham star

West Ham defender Ben Johnson has completed a move to Premier League rivals Ipswich Town after his departure from the London Stadium as a free agent this summer.

The 24-year-old has proved somewhat of a contract rebel over the past campaign as he stalled on a new deal offered to him by the club. Johnson was reported to be prioritising playing time next campaign having made just 14 top flight appearances under David Moyes during the 2023/24 campaign.

On Sunday, West Ham confirmed that the defender would indeed be leaving the club at the expiry of his contract. Johnson, who has worked his way up through the club's ranks over the past 17 years, shared a heartfelt message with the fanbase.

He told the Hammers website: "I just want to be known and remembered for my time at West Ham for having played with a smile on my face and having really enjoyed my football. That’s really important to me.

"I would say the most special memory I have is winning the UEFA Europa Conference League. To be involved in a European trophy win doesn’t come around frequently, so to be around and be part of it, and to be able to achieve that with West Ham was incredible.

"My dreams were exceeded by what happened two seasons ago and I’m just so, so pleased I did it as a West Ham player. I’ll never forget that night. I wish West Ham every success for the upcoming season under the new head coach and of course I’m going to miss all my teammates and the staff, along with the supporters."

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Championship clubs Leeds United and Sheffield United had been linked with serious interest in the player - the former in need of a transfer acquisition in the full-back role after loanee Connor Roberts returned to Burnley. Scottish Premiership giants Rangers had also been linked.

However, it is newly promoted Premier League side Ipswich Town who have won the battle to convince Johnson to join their programme. The defender has penned a four-year deal with the Tractor Boys, as confirmed by Ipswich on Monday having been reported by transfer guru Fabrizio Romano as ‘signed and sealed’.

Manager Kieran McKenna said: "Ben is a player who fits the profile we like to bring to the Club. He is a young and talented defender with good technical quality, as well as excellent physical attributes.

“Ben also has a good amount of Premier League experience for his age and he is hungry to take the next step in his career. We feel this is a good move for him and he is an excellent addition for the Club.

“Everyone who has worked with him speaks highly of his character, so we’re sure he will fit into the dressing room and our environment and culture.”