West Ham are confident of tying down emerging right-back Ben Johnson to a new long-term contract, 90min understands.
The 21-year-old has recently established himself in David Moyes' starting lineup after Vladimir Coufal picked up a groin injury, and was rewarded for his fine form with a first call-up and cap for England's Under-21s in March.
Johnson's contract at London Stadium had been due to expire at the end of the season, but 90min understands that an option to extend his deal by two years has been taken up by the club.
The Hammers are now working towards agreeing a long-term contract extension with Johnson, who is keen to stay, which will reward him with a pay rise that reflects his improved standing in the squad.
His rise to prominence, following on from being named Young Hammer of the Year during 2020/21, has come at a vital time for West Ham, who have relied heavily on the impressive Coufal since his arrival from Slavia Prague in October 2020.
The Czech international has been an integral part of David Moyes' side, helping the club achieve a top-six Premier League finish in his first season, but injury woes have seen him drop out of the side - allowing Johnson to step in and show what he can do.
Against Sevilla, in West Ham's two-legged Europa League last 16 tie, Johnson was excellent, superbly marshalling Anthony Martial in the return leg as the Hammers famously earned a place in the quarter-finals at the expense of the six-time winners.
A new contract for Johnson is not the only pressing issue for West Ham, with the club also engaging in talks with midfielder Tomas Soucek over a new and improved deal. However, 90min has learned that those negotiations have been put on hold until the end of the season, while there's also plans to offer Jarrod Bowen a new contract.
In terms of outgoings, West Ham are expected to listen to offers for Arthur Masuaku, with third-choice right-back Ryan Fredericks unlikely to be offered a new contract once his deal expires at the end of June.
Source : 90min