Bid rejected! Ex-Chelsea boss turned down after snubbing Awoniyi for Villa striker

Bid rejected! Ex-Chelsea boss turned down after snubbing Awoniyi for Villa striker

Ifeanyi Ufomadu 09:56 - 15.01.2025

West Ham are in the market for a top striker in the January transfer window amid a serious injury crisis.

West Ham's bid to sign Aston Villa striker Jhon Duran has been rejected, with the club reportedly holding out for a whopping £60m.

The Colombian forward has been in impressive form this season, netting 12 goals in all competitions, despite being used mainly as backup to Ollie Watkins.

Aston Villa striker Jhon Duran

New West Ham boss Graham Potter is a long-time admirer of Duran, and the Hammers have already tabled a £40m bid for the 21-year-old.

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However, this offer falls significantly short of Villa's valuation, as they seek to land as much money as possible in order to secure a top replacement for Unai Emery.

Duran's impressive performances have caught the attention of several top clubs, including French giants PSG, and his goals have been crucial in Villa's success this season.

He scored game-winners in four matches in the league, while his three Champions League goals, including the famous late winner against Bayern Munich, have demonstrated his ability to perform on the biggest stage.

West Ham have also been linked with Nottingham Forest's Taiwo Awoniyi, but it appears that Duran is their top target.

Awoniyi has struggled with injuries over the past 12 months, which may have influenced Potter's preference for the Colombian forward.

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