West Ham United are not backing away from their interest in Jhon Duran. They now view the Colombian as a top striker target for 2025.
According to Give Me Sport, West Ham United view Jhon Duran as their top target in 2025, although they face a challenge in signing the Colombian striker. The Hammers missed out on the forward during the summer, and following his contract renewal with Aton Villa, mounting a fresh pursuit could get complicated.
West Ham may have had a good enough summer window, but they still lack a lethal striker. The likes of Danny Ings and Michail Antonio are not effective anymore and are coming to the end of their deals at the club. Summer arrival Niclas Fullkrug has suffered from persistent injury troubles that have not allowed him to make the necessary impact.
Hence, Julen Lopetegui is keen to add a new frontman in January and could push the club to revive their interest in Jhon Duran. Back in the summer, they might have missed out on an opportunity to sign the Colombian, as his agents were pushing for a move. Chelsea were also keen then, and as they failed to sign a new striker in the summer, they could view Duran as a viable target to compete with Nicolas Jackson.
At one stage, all signs pointed towards Duran’s imminent arrival at the London Stadium, but the Hammers board did not want to meet his £40 million asking price. Director Tim Steidten was frustrated at the club chiefs and their inability to close the deal, and now those arguments are valid, considering they may have to pay considerably more to sign him.
Duran has seen his reputation rise massively following a stellar start to the season. He has been their go-to impact player off the bench while making himself a hero in their Champions League campaign. With his contract renewal, Aston Villa are set to demand a massive price point, even double their summer asking price of £40 million, meaning West Ham might have missed a trick back then.
West Ham view Duran as their top target
West Ham are now viewing Duran as their top striker target, and could make a bid in January. The £75,000-a-week Aston Villa star is not yet a sure starter for Unai Emery’s side, which could increase his frustrations. He has significant interest from Arsenal and Barcelona, although the Hammers believe they have done enough groundwork to have a big chance to sign him.
Chelsea are also keen, and could make a concerted push in the future, which adds to the competition. Duran wants to be a regular starter at his club, or else he might even consider moving out of Aston Villa if a good opportunity arrives. Joining the Hammers might still be on the cards, although the level of competition could blow Lopetegui’s side out of the race, as any movement will likely happen only in the summer window.
