Duran Move Makes Transfer Sense

The transfer rumour linking West Ham with a move for Aston Villa’s Jhon Duran is an intriguing link. As one would expect, the club always remains tight-lipped about genuine transfer targets; however, I do believe there is some validity in the Hammers’ reported interest in the player.

Most pleasingly for me is the age profile and potential of Duran, who may not be prolific but has many of the qualities required to be a lone striker. The Colombian is certainly a far cry from some of the players we were most recently linked with, such as former Crystal Palace striker Alexander Sørloth.

Whilst I try to remain open-minded about most players, I found the transfer links to a 28-year-old journeyman professional with a poor goal-scoring record concerning. The £30 million price tag for the Norwegian striker, off the back of one good season in La Liga, was possibly the most worrying of all. It’s the sort of uninspiring transfer rumour that is hard to get excited about, much like the constant speculation surrounding our interest in Youssef En-Nesyri.

I do believe there is a difference between someone like Sørloth and similarly aged Ivan Toney, who has an excellent goal-scoring record in the Premier League. The latter can probably justify such a high transfer premium due to his almost guaranteed top level goals; however, the former is a massive risk.

Of course, there is risk to any transfer involving a significant outlay, but that is lessened with players of potential who may well have a sell-on value.

Therefore, the links and speculation with Duran are pleasing and another step in the right direction toward reducing the overall age of the squad. There are still strikers I would prefer over the exciting Aston Villa prospect, but if we end up signing Duran, it could well prove to be a decent bit of business.