The name ‘Jhon Duran’ just will not go away at West Ham United with Fenerbahce’s former Aston Villa striker linked in what feels like the umpteenth successive transfer window.
So when it emerged that Duran is not in the Fenerbahce squad for Monday’s Turkish Super Lig clash with Kocaelispor, tongues were inevitably set a-wagging.
Especially after reports in the country claimed that West Ham were weighing up a dramatic late move for a striker they famously tried to sign for just shy of £60 million during his Aston Villa days.
We all love the club to bits, but let’s be real – what would you have to tell a new signing to convince them to join?! 😔
Per Sky Sports, Villa rejected a bid worth £57 million from West Ham United, only to agree terms with Al-Nassr a week later.
Now on loan in Istanbul, there are reports suggesting that Duran could look to terminate his Fenerbahce contract.
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Jhon Duran not in Fenerbahce squad as West Ham United are linked with ex-Aston Villa ace again
Fener coach Domenico Tedesco was inevitably asked about the Ecuadorian’s absence before kick-off on Monday. The former Belgium, Schalke and Spartak Moscow coach insists that Duran is not in the squad because of injury, rather than anything transfer-related.
“I will not make a definitive comment about the rumours. Jhon is our player,” Tedesco told Star. “He is feeling pain in his foot and his treatment is ongoing.”
Fabrizio Romano believes that Zenit St Petersburg are best-placed to sign Duran as things stand. The Russian transfer window will remain open until February 19th.
“It’s a possibility to see Duran returning to [the Premier League],” Romano said on YouTube.
“There have been several conversations, I can tell you, especially in the last 48 hours with several clubs interested. My understanding is that the most likely solution at this stage is in Russia with Zenit St. Petersburg, because there is a conversation ongoing between Zenit and the agents of Jhon Duran.
“So at the moment, this is the most likely outcome. Let’s see if some club will try to hijack this and make it happen before the end of the window, but my understanding at this stage is still on Zenit being favourites to sign Jhon Duran.”
Pretend YOU call the shots – who are you signing on Deadline Day?! 🤑
Feel free to name one REALISTIC target and one DREAM addition 😂
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