Stoke City defender Glen Johnson is understood to be a target for West Ham

West Ham are interested in signing Stoke City defender Glen Johnson, Sky sources understand.

The 32-year-old began his career with the Hammers before joining Chelsea in a £6m deal in July 2003, winning the Premier League and League Cup during his time at Stamford Bridge.

FT Stoke 2 - 0 Watford FT Stoke 2 - 0 Watford

A permanent move to Portsmouth followed in 2007 and with it, FA Cup glory before he joined Liverpool for £18m less than two years later, where he was again part of a League Cup-winning team.

Stoke then signed him on a free transfer 18 months ago and he has been a consistent performer in his time at the club, making 42 appearances for Mark Hughes' side.

Johnson was a regular starter for Stoke last season until he suffered a season-ending knee injury in the 3-1 win at Bournemouth on February 13 2016.

West Ham 0-2 Man Utd West Ham 0-2 Man Utd

Despite West Ham's interest, Stoke are understood to be reluctant to let the former England international leave the Bet365 Stadium and could now face a battle with their Premier League rivals to keep hold of the right-back.