West Ham set for mini clear-out as Declan Rice, Ben Johnson and Thilo Kehrer could all leave
- Scott Allen
- 27 June 2023
Declan Rice's impending departure is already becoming a saga, but could West Ham also ship out defenders Ben Johnson and Thilo Kehrer?
West Ham have reportedly rejected another bid from Manchester City for star midfielder Declan Rice, worth £80million plus £10m in add ons. While Arsenal are lining up a third bid, after having a £75m, plus £15m, one rejected.
The Irons are said to be holding out for at least £100m for Rice, and with two years left on his contract who can blame them?
But while West Ham fans are resigned to losing Rice, and have been for a long time, the main interest lies in the other players that could be moved on.
Manuel Lanzini has already left the club after his contract came to an end, while Everton are reportedly sniffing around utility full-back Ben Johnson.
Johnson, who is currently on international duty with the England Under-21s, has dropped down David Moyes' pecking order and could be available at a bargain price.
Everton are currently leading the race for his signature, and as he is out of contract at the end of the 2023/24 season, West Ham are more than likely to let the 23-year-old leave for a fee this transfer window.
German international defender Thilo Kehrer could also be moved on after a frustrating season at the London Stadium.
Kehrer played 38 times across all competitions for West Ham, across the back four and even in midfield, but after a handful of key errors struggled to convince the West Ham faithful he should be a first-choice player.
His form improved drastically towards the end of the season, and many believe he still has an important role to play in the West Ham squad.
