Johnson, 22, has just six months remaining on his contract at the Riverside, but Middlesbrough will be entitled to substantial compensation for the youngster if he runs down his contract and becomes a free agent in the summer.Chelsea had been aiming to secure a £5 million deal for the England U-21 international, who scored twice in Boro's 4-1 Championship victory at Doncaster recently. Related ArticlesMan Utd 3 Man City 1; agg 4-3Robinho close to loan move to SantosMan City Transfer TalkChelsea Transfer TalkChelsea 3 Birmingham City 0Transfer TalkBut City are now hopeful of winning the race for the Sunderland-born player, who interested Real Madrid last season, after making their move yesterday. Their initial £5 milion offer could eventually be worth up to £8 million. Santos midfielder Paulo Henrique Ganso, 20, has asked not to be involved in a possible swap deal with City to smooth Robinho's loan move to the Brazilian club.
Source: Telegraph