It was only yesterday that I found myself writing about Arsenal's hunt for a new right-back, but more names are being thrown into the hat all of the time.
As well as the Gunners reportedly holding an interest in both Toronto starlet Jahkeele Marshall-Rutty and Middlesbrough's Isaiah Jones, Mikel Arteta is also said to be keeping tabs on West Ham talent Ben Johnson.
The 22-year-old, who can play at both right-back and left-back, enjoyed a breakthrough campaign with the Hammers last season and is currently playing his part in the side's push for Champions League qualification.
Reports have suggested that Arsenal aren't the only club monitoring Johnson, with north London rivals Spurs and fellow Premier League side Liverpool also in the mix.
Despite his continuing progress under David Moyes, The Athletic has reported that Johnson recently rejected a new six-and-a-half-year contract offer.
A clear statement that shows just how highly rated he is at the London Stadium, the decision meant West Ham had to opt for their Plan B to prevent losing the player at the end of the current season.
Evening Standard report that a two-year option in Johnson's contract has been activated, extending his current deal to 2024.
Although the Englishman is now under contract for another two years, the fact that he rejected a new fresh deal beforehand should put Arsenal on high alert.
West Ham may be looking to grow as a club, but a move to the Emirates would signal a big step up for Johnson who will be keen on proving himself at a higher level.
Arteta has shown he has the managerial qualities to bring the best out of young talents, and Johnson would be part of an exciting, youthful team that has big ambitions.
On top of that, he could find himself in a healthy battle with Takehiro Tomiyasu, who requires a strong competitor when he is unavailable for selection.
Johnson is valued at just £2.7m by Transfermarkt and while the Hammers would likely demand more than that, technical director Edu could soon have another opportunity to snap up a bargain deal for a solid back-up option.
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