In a recent print edition, The Sunday Mirror (1 September, Page 70) revealed that West Ham United could reignite their interest in Aston Villa ace Jhon Duran this January. It is believed that the Hammers are eager to move in for the Colombian talent in the winter transfer window.
Duran’s Rapid Rise At Villa Park
Duran managed to catch the eye at times with his performances as the focal point of Aston Villa’s attack in the previous campaign. The Colombia international did well to score eight goals in 37 appearances for the Villans last season on all fronts.
The 20-year-old saw most of his game time come as a substitute which explains why he only averaged 0.9 shots, 0.2 key passes and 0.1 dribbles per 90 minutes in the Premier League. He was also a bit careless when distributing the ball in the final third, as evidenced by his pass completion rate of 71.1% in league football (stats via whoscored).
His current contract at Aston Villa will run out in the summer of 2028 which could make it tough for the Hammers to sign him on the cheap this January.
Is Duran A Good Option For West Ham United Boss Julen Lopetegui?
Duran can create some space for himself to get a few strikes in at goal. He can shoot the ball with power and precision from all ranges and has got the pace to get in behind the opponent’s backline. However, the Colombian striker is still quite inexperienced at the highest level and would need time to prove his worth as a regular starter in the Premier League.
West Ham can use someone with Duran’s potential and skill set as he would enhance the quality of Julen Lopetegui’s frontline in the long run. We can expect him to serve as an ideal long-term successor to Michail Antonio at the East London club.
At 20, Duran has the ceiling to be a world-class forward someday. Therefore, he would be an excellent option for the Hammers to pursue this winter. However, Lopetegui has to be patient with his progress before he can get the best out of the gifted youngster. All in all, West Ham would be wise to go all out to snap Duran up when the transfer window reopens at the start of next year.
