West Ham United must keep eye on Jhon Duran as big clubs circle to sign him in January
West Ham United must keep a close eye on Jhon Duran ahead of a potential move in January.
According to Tom Bogert, writing for Mlssoccer.com, Duran will be among the MLS’s top 10 most expensive outbound transfers, if not top five, and he will definitely leave Chicago Fire FC at some point in the future.
Several big European clubs are hoping to sign the 19-year-old in the January transfer window although Chicago prefers to keep him at the club as of now.
The Sun journalist Alan Nixon wrote on his Patreon (27 November) that the Hammers and Everton have jumped into the chase for the young Colombian sensation.
The striker is reportedly valued at £10 million and he could opt to move to a club where he will get regular games.
Duran is expected to be a key player for Colombia at the South American U-20 championships in January, and scouts from all over the world are almost certain to watch him in action.
The centre-forward has been in terrific form, as he scored eight goals and provided three assists for the Fire this season. He is emerging as a fantastic number nine for the club.
The Hammers have struggled for goals despite signing Gianluca Scamacca in the summer transfer window from Sassuolo. With Michail Antonio struggling for form and fitness as well, Duran can be a superb back-up option if needed.
A potential exit in January for the highly-rated teenager can’t be ruled out, and West Ham should be in the front row to sign him if and when the opportunity arises.
The price quoted for him is well within the club’s budget, but the Hammers have to be absolutely sure that they can use him properly.