But Johnson, 21, insists he wants to see out the remaining two and a half years on his present deal at Leeds and is hoping the loan at Brighton will see him get himself back into the first team scene at Elland Road.
Johnson said: "Reserve team football isn't bad for you and it gives you the chance to play games, but it's never the same as performing in front of a big crowd when the pressure's on.
"I love playing at Elland Road and the atmosphere there brings the best out of you. You need the pressure of real games, and that's why I've come to Brighton. I'm sure I'll benefit from it."