
Ipswich, West Ham, and QPR are reportedly among the teams who have expressed interest in the 18-year-old midfielder, who has drawn attention with Eastbourne Borough in the National League South this season.
However, the Northern Echo is aware that Boro has prevailed in the competition for the all-action midfield player.
Johnson, who joined Eastbourne only in the summer and has no academy experience, has had an incredible climb.
However, he made a name for himself right away and has been a standout player for Borough, who are presently three points behind the leaders and in the National League South play-off spots.
Martin Carter, head of academy recruitment, and Chris Jones, head of recruitment, are said to have kept a close eye on Johnson after one of his scouts reported him to Boro.
Johnson will join Boro’s Under-21 team at first, giving him time to get used to his new environment and the level increase. However, when he thinks the kids are ready, head coach Michael Carrick is always eager to give them a taste of first team training.
Isaiah Jones made 149 first team appearances after joining from Tooting and Mitcham before departing for Luton Town earlier this month in a £5 million move, demonstrating Boro’s track record of success when acquiring players from non-league teams.

Johnson, who has made 24 appearances in National League South, stepped up to join Eastbourne in the summer after making an impression during his trial. He has two assists and one goal to his credit.
“It is a huge club, so coming here is very exciting,” he stated upon joining Eastbourne in the summer. You want to be yourself and give the squad your all.
“I will give every game my all because I value this club’s size, the support you provide, and the demands of the fans.” I will put my all into every training session and game I play in order to continuously get better and risk my life for the team.