West Ham United agreement update on Jhon Duran transfer drops at Aston Villa
West Ham are finding it increasingly difficult to strike a deal with Aston Villa for Jhon Duran, according to Sky Sports.
The sports broadcaster reported [29 July] that the Hammers are struggling to meet Villa’s valuation for the Colombian striker, having had three bids rejected this summer [Sunday Mirror].
It is understood that the 20-year-old is keen on a move to the London Stadium, according to GiveMeSport, but the Irons are ready to abandon the deal [Sean Whetstone].
West Ham United close to pulling plug on Jhon Duran transfer
While Julen Lopetegui looks to have made a striker signing vital this summer, the Hammers must ensure they are not taken for ransom by Villa.
The club’s most recent player-plus-cash bid worth £32million plus a sell-on clause and youngster Lewis Orford was promptly rejected, which has caused the most frustration for all parties so far.
Duran is clearly a talented forward, having earned his move to Villa Park from Chicago Fire in January 2023, but he has yet to prove himself due to the form of Ollie Watkins.
Most of his best performances have come in the Europa Conference League rather than the Premier League, having only made three league starts last term under Unai Emery.
With just eight goals in 49 appearances, the Hammers are certainly capable of attracting an alternative out-and-out No.9 to the London Stadium this summer, given the club’s vast history.
Danny Ings and Michail Antonio are the two main options for Lopetegui heading into the 2024/25 campaign, with the latter’s recent injury problems not doing much to convince the fans that there is enough firepower.
Considering Duran’s lack of minutes at Villa Park, he might not be the answer to West Ham’s issues this season, and if Emery’s side are not willing to lower their demands, attention should turn elsewhere.
In other West Ham news, Sergi Roberto is ready for a Premier League switch with the Hammers serious this summer.
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