Aston Villa demand shared as Jhon Duran transfer to West Ham United still on
Aston Villa will accept nothing less than a £40million transfer fee for Jhon Duran amid interest from West Ham United, according to Fabrizio Romano.
The Italian transfer journalist reported via his Daily Briefing column [17 July] that, while the situation remains open for the striker to leave Villa Park this summer, Duran will not leave for less than £40m.
It is understood that Villa have rejected multiple proposals, with Chelsea submitting a bid in June and the Hammers offering £35million after personal terms were agreed [Fabrizio Romano, 9 July].
“Their request remains clear, at least £40m or the player is not leaving. Let’s see what West Ham decide to do now,” Romano wrote.
Jhon Duran transfer saga drags on at West Ham United
Julen Lopetegui is clearly continuing the search for a brand-new striker despite Danny Ings being set to remain at the London Stadium this summer.
The former Villa striker has underperformed during his time with the Irons, notching just four goals in 52 appearances. But if his pre-season is anything to go by, he is primed and ready for the 2024/25 campaign.
Lopetegui is keen to get a new forward in before the end of July [GiveMeSport], with the likes of AS Roma’s Tammy Abraham, Sevilla’s Youssef En-Nesyri and Atletico Madrid’s Samu Omorodion all linked with the club.
Duran, on the other hand, is a very different prospect this summer, having been overshadowed by Ollie Watkins during his short spell at Villa Park so far.
The 20-year-old Colombian has only managed to net eight times in 49 appearances since arriving from Chicago Fire in January 2023, so it will be a surprise to many if David Sullivan sanctions a £40m bid for the striker.
He has shown his prospective talent in bursts but does not yet look ready to lead the line for Lopetegui’s team. However, the saga continues to drag on, and the Hammers continue to be interested this summer.
In other West Ham news, the Hammers have launched a £29million bid for a player after his Euro 2024 displays.
For more West Ham news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.