“West Ham’s Bid for Jhon Duran Highlights Ambitious Transfer Strategy”
West Ham United are actively pursuing a deal to sign Aston Villa forward Jhon Duran, according to sources familiar with the situation. The Colombian player has attracted previous interest from Chelsea, who signed Omari Kellyman from Villa before the June PSR deadline. However, West Ham now lead the race as they aim to bolster Julen Lopetegui’s attacking options.
Sources indicate that Villa are willing to sell Duran this summer, despite qualifying for the Champions League, with the club’s preference initially being to retain Kellyman if PSR compliance allowed. Duran, aged 20, is eager for more regular first-team opportunities, recognizing that he currently sits behind Ollie Watkins in Villa’s forward hierarchy. Last season, he contributed 19 goals and 13 assists under Unai Emery’s management, aiding the team in securing a top-four finish.
Villa’s doubts about Duran’s stylistic fit have played a significant role in their openness to selling him to West Ham, who are supporting new manager Lopetegui in efforts to revitalize their squad. West Ham are expected to offer around £35m for Duran, approaching the sum they recently paid Wolverhampton Wanderers for Max Kilman. Should negotiations with Villa falter, West Ham have identified other targets, including Callum Wilson, potentially available for £15m to £20m, although competition from Saudi Pro League clubs exists.
Jonathan David from Lille remains another option for West Ham, although interest from London rivals Chelsea and Tottenham is reportedly more advanced at this stage.