Exclusive: West Ham issue key 11-word statement on fresh Duran bid
West Ham respond to reports of a new bid for Aston Villa striker Jhon Duran following a journalist's intriguing claim.
The saga surrounding Jhon Duran and his potential move between West Ham and Aston Villa seemed to have reached a conclusion.
However, when it comes to West Ham—or Duran—it seems there’s never a dull moment.
Despite signing a new contract with Aston Villa, speculation about Duran heading to east London has persisted.
Recently, reports suggested that Duran remains on West Ham’s radar as they prioritize signing a younger striker.
The Hammers reportedly believe they can exploit the fact that Duran isn’t receiving the regular starts he desires, hoping this might eventually persuade him to join them.
A couple of months ago, Duran candidly discussed his failed transfer to West Ham.
He revealed that there had been a real possibility of moving to the London Stadium during the summer.
The 21-year-old striker expressed his strong desire to be the main forward at a club, admitting that his impatience could still lead him elsewhere.
Duran has also acknowledged having a “love-hate relationship” with Aston Villa manager Unai Emery.
Following a recent three-game suspension, Duran has found himself starting on the bench again for Villa.
West Ham recently reignited their pursuit of Duran with a £40m bid, marking a renewed effort to secure the Colombian striker.
Over the summer, Duran was West Ham’s top target, with negotiations dragging on for two months.
Optimism was high when Duran made a crossed Hammers gesture on social media, hinting at the move.
However, West Ham ultimately refused to meet Villa’s £45m valuation, deeming it excessive for an inexperienced player.
Instead, West Ham’s technical director, Tim Steidten, spread the striker budget across signings that turned out to be disastrous—Niclas Fullkrug and Luis Guilherme.
Fullkrug, plagued by injuries, is now sidelined for another three months, while Guilherme has barely played and is already being considered for a transfer to a Saudi club.
West Ham’s recent £40m offer for Duran, made two weeks ago, was swiftly rejected by Aston Villa.
Many West Ham fans criticized the bid, labeling it a “phantom offer” and accusing the board of making a move they knew would be dismissed outright.
