West Ham United are reportedly preparing a late January move for Colombian striker Jhon Duran, but face significant competition from multiple Premier League rivals and European giants Juventus as the transfer window approaches its deadline.
Multi-Club Interest in Former Villa Forward
According to reports emerging from Turkey, the 22-year-old Fenerbahce striker has attracted attention from several English clubs including West Ham, Everton, Nottingham Forest and Bournemouth. Duran, who is currently on loan in Turkey from Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr, represents an intriguing option for Premier League sides looking to bolster their attacking options during the winter transfer period.
West Ham's Busy Transfer Window Continues
The Hammers have been particularly active during this transfer window as manager Nuno Espirito Santo seeks to strengthen his squad in their battle against relegation. The East London club have already completed several signings including Taty Castellanos from Lazio, Pablo from Portuguese side Gil Vicente, and Adama Traore from Fulham.
Espirito Santo expressed his enthusiasm about Traore's arrival, stating: "I've worked with him for many years, and I know him well. He's unique - there aren't many players with his ability one-on-one, or with his pace. I think he's going to give us many things that we need."
West Ham have also seen several departures including permanent exits for Luis Guilherme, Andrew Irving and Guido Rodriguez, while Lucas Paqueta has joined Brazilian side Flamengo and James Ward-Prowse has moved on loan to relegation rivals Burnley.
Juventus Enter the Fray
The pursuit of Duran has become more complicated with Turkish journalist Yağız Sabuncuoğlu reporting that Italian giants Juventus have submitted an official offer for the Colombian international. This development adds a significant European dimension to what was already a competitive domestic battle for the striker's signature.
Duran's current situation presents some transfer complications as he is midway through a loan spell at Fenerbahce from Al-Nassr. However, similar circumstances did not prevent former Chelsea striker Tammy Abraham from securing a permanent move to Aston Villa earlier this week, suggesting that a January transfer remains possible despite the logistical challenges.
Player Profile and Market Value
The Colombian forward has recorded 12 goals and one assist in 55 Premier League appearances during his career, primarily with Aston Villa before his move to Saudi Arabia. His current market value is estimated at just over £27 million, representing a substantial decrease from the £64 million Al-Nassr paid Villa for his services just twelve months ago.
This significant depreciation in value could make Duran an attractive proposition for Premier League clubs seeking attacking reinforcements, though it remains unclear what transfer fee Al-Nassr would demand if they decided to sell the player during this window.
As the January transfer deadline approaches, the competition for Jhon Duran's signature appears to be intensifying, with multiple Premier League clubs weighing up whether to make formal bids for the Colombian striker who could provide valuable firepower in their respective battles for Premier League survival and success.
