Scouts from Leeds United ‘have been watching’ Nottingham Forest winger Brennan Johnson ‘for a while’, according to journalist Pete O’Rourke.

The 20-year-old has lit up the Championship this season, sparking speculation over an imminent move to the Premier League during the summer transfer window.

What is the latest news involving Johnson?

According to Football Insider, Johnson has informed Forest that he has no intention of signing a new contract at this moment in time, with his existing deal set to expire in 2023.

The report states that the Wales international’s decision has provided a ‘big boost’ to his potential suitors Leeds and West Ham United as they continue to weigh up whether to make an offer for the talented attacker.

Johnson’s decision comes after Brentford saw an £18 million bid rejected for his services during the winter, with the Daily Mail claiming Forest had placed a £20m price tag on their prized asset.

The likes of Everton and Newcastle have also been credited with an interest in the youngster, and Eddie Howe is believed to have identified him as a possible replacement for Allan Saint-Maximin.

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However, Leeds could attempt to prise Johnson away from the City Ground to succeed their own talisman as Raphinha has been heavily tipped to depart west Yorkshire.

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has disclosed that Barcelona are in ‘advanced talks’ over personal terms with the Brazilian, and it seems his future lies away from the club.

What has O’Rourke said about Johnson?

O’Rourke has provided a fresh update on Leeds’ pursuit of Johnson, revealing their recruitment team have been tracking his progress for quite some time.

He told GiveMeSport: “I know Leeds scouts have been watching Johnson for a while, so I'm sure they might be thinking he could be a good addition to the team, especially if they lost someone like Raphinha.”

How has Johnson been performing?

Johnson enjoyed a successful season-long spell at Lincoln City last term, registering 13 goals and 14 assists in 48 appearances, firing the Imps to the League One play-offs.

And the 5 foot 8 ace has carried that form over into the Championship during the current campaign.

In 43 outings across all competitions, Johnson has racked up 22 goal contributions, helping Forest climb up the third place in the second-tier standings.

If Steve Cooper’s side manage to achieve promotion come May, then it may be much more difficult for Leeds to sign Johnson, yet he’s likely to remain on the wish list of the Whites.