Leeds United could get the FFP fix for the problematic position

Leeds United may have to stretch to get the right deal when it comes to the summer transfer market, but there is no doubt that key positions will need to be addressed.

Daniel Farke could face another summer of change at Elland Road, with several of his key men linked with a move following their failure to gain promotion to the Premier League. Regardless of who walks through the exit door, there are some issues that need addressing even in the current batch.

Farke failed to nail down the right-back position satisfactorily all season, with several players taking the role at various stages. Archie Gray was likely the choice, but given the Leeds youngster is more naturally a central midfielder and has huge potential, Farke will be keen to allow him to develop in that role.

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Luke Ayling was allowed to join Middlesbrough on loan at the end of his contract, while loanee Djed Spence was quickly dropped and Connor Roberts was brought in, although the Burnley defender’s injury problems meant he didn’t make as much of an impact as much as he would have liked.

So the news that reported Leeds target Ben Johnson could leave West Ham United this summer will no doubt already be on Farke’s radar. The Whites have long been linked with the 24-year-old full-back, with Scottish giants Rangers, and reports suggest he will leave the London Stadium now that his contract is up.

That would mean he is available on a free transfer, with several clubs now alerted to his availability. It remains to be seen whether he would be keen to drop down to the Championship, but the chance of regular first-team football would be a key incentive after years on the sidelines under David Moyes.

Although he has never been able to nail down a first-team place, Johnson has plenty of experience at his fingertips, something Farke felt was perhaps lacking from his side at key stages last season, and a lack of a fee would be music to ears 49ers Enterprises. Wages could be a stumbling block, although he is not one of the top scorers at the Hammers.

The arrival of new West Ham manager Julien Lopetegui has apparently not swayed Johnson’s mind to leave, and he will become a free agent when his contract expires at the end of June.