Ben Johnson would be a 'brilliant' Rangers signing as West Ham offer tabled

Rangers will have suffered a major blow if they now miss out on a deal to sign Ben Johnson from West Ham.

According to reports, the arrival of Julen Lopetegui has increased the likelihood of Johnson remaining at the London Stadium.

Football Insider revealed Gers were among multiple clubs considering a move for the right-back upon the expiry of his contract, but he is now said to be closing in on a new deal after the latest twist.

Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, former Hammers striker Frank McAvennie explained that the 24-year-old would be a success at Ibrox should he opt to make the move.

He went on to suggest that it would be a mistake for him to agree to a new contract at West Ham as playing time would not be guaranteed.

Questions were also raised about Johnson's attitude and ability to perform in the Premier League, with a move to Scotland said to be more his level.

Rangers dealt new blow after Ben Johnson twist at West Ham

As revealed by Football Insider on 14 June, Johnson is expected to make his final decision on West Ham's latest contract offer this week.

Sources say he will make the decision based on where he can best progress and develop his game, with reports now suggesting that could be at West Ham.

With Rangers looking likely to miss out, McAvennie has demanded that the defender improve his performances under Lopetegui at the London Stadium.

"They've missed out, I think he would've been a good player for Rangers," he told Football Insider.

"I don't think he's going to get many games at West Ham.

"The new manager has come in but I don't know if he's going to make him into a better player with his tackling and defending.

"I think he'd have done brilliantly at Rangers, that's for sure.

"He smiles too much, though. He's too happy. It's alright smiling when you've done something, but I don't know about him.

"Would he be a success at Rangers? Definitely.

"But I don't think he's good enough for West Ham in the Premier League."

In other news, Rangers have been backed to sign Tommy Conway.

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