Aston Villa prospect Jhon Duran is reportedly ready to “agitate” to complete a move to West Ham United before the summer transfer window shuts down.
According to a report by Give Me Sport, Jhon Duran is the subject of interest from West Ham United. The Hammers have been scouring the market for a striker in the summer transfer window. While the Aston Villa prospect is also a target for Chelsea, he is pushing to join West Ham United before the transfer deadline.
Jhon Duran and his Aston Villa journey
Jhon Duran has endured a topsy-turvy ride since joining Aston Villa from Chicago Fire in January 2023. While the South American attacker has shown flashes of brilliance in the last 18 months, he has struggled to win over Unai Emery and has played second-fiddle to Ollie Watkins.
The 20-year-old has turned out nearly 50 times thus far for Aston Villa while chipping in with eight goals. In addition, Emery is ready to sanction Duran’s departure despite bringing him to the West Midlands club 18 months ago. Nevertheless, the young attacking prospect’s stock in the market remains high.
In addition, Jhon Duran’s £30,000-a-week wages make him an appealing target for his prospective suitors in the summer transfer window. Widespread reports have heavily linked the Colombian international with London clubs like Chelsea and West Ham United.
London calling?
Chelsea’s interest in Jhon Duran is understandable. The Blues have been scouring the market for a striker heading into the summer transfer window and have signed Marc Guiu from Barcelona. However, Chelsea will look to add another centre-forward to the first-team squad, with Duran a viable target.
But the Blues are behind West Ham United in the chase, with recent reports pointing to an agreement being close. The Hammers have also been keen on signing a striker this summer, with Michail Antonio and Danny Ings approaching the twilight of their careers. The latest has boosted West Ham’s prospects, with Duran ready to “agitate” for a move to the London Stadium.
The 20-year-old Colombian international will not cost a bomb, with Aston Villa demanding around £40 million to part ways with him. Considering Jhon Duran’s £30,000-a-week wages, coughing up £40 million to secure his services makes sense.
