As reported by Charlie Gordon [30 July], the Hammers’ competition with Chelsea to secure Duran’s services now looks likely to see a move for the young Colombian.
Villa appear resigned to losing Duran as they approach the camp of in-form striker Mateta, whose last outing for Crystal Palace saw him net a hat-trick against Emery’s men.
It was reported that the club have so far had three bids rejected for Duran [Sunday Mirror] as they struggle to meet Villa’s valuation of the 20-year-old, who scored five Premier League goals last season.
West Ham continue Duran chase as Aston Villa seek striker
Tim Steidten has been relentless in the West Ham pursuit of Duran, having seen multiple offers reportedly knocked back.
It will be intriguing to see how far the Irons are willing to push it, with Villa potentially set to secure a hefty price for the youngster if the battle with Chelsea continues.
A bright future is projected for the 10-cap Colombia international, who has impressed sporadically in another claret and blue shirt but has been planted in the shadow of Ollie Watkins.
Steidten is militant on bolstering Julen Lopetegui’s centre-forward options with just Michail Antonio and Danny Ings on the books as experienced strikers, as the club chase Germany frontman Niclas Fullkrug and Lens’ Elye Wahi.
A chase is also underway for in-form Villarreal striker Alexander Sorloth, who is formerly of Mateta’s employers Palace.
In other West Ham news, Kevin Nolan shares why the Hammers have missed out on several targets.
