- West Ham renews interest in Jhon Durán, whom they tried to buy in the summer
- The Hammers have played their last two games without a recognized striker
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West Ham have stepped up their pursuit of striker Jhon Durán by raising their offer to a record £57million, but Aston Villa insist their striker is not for sale.
The Hammers attempted to buy Durán in the summer when the Colombian forward made it clear via his social media that he wanted to move to West Ham, even crossing his arms in a post, an apparent nod to the Hammers' club crest, but the clubs they did it. Not agreeing on a rate.
Since then, Durán's star has continued to rise and West Ham's need for a striker has only increased.
West Ham have played their last two games without a recognized striker in the lineup and failed to register a single shot on goal during Saturday's 2-0 loss to Crystal Palace.
Meanwhile, Durán has already scored 12 goals this season despite competing with England's Ollie Watkins for a place in Unai Emery's starting XI.
Durán had replaced Watkins as Villa's first-choice No 9 before being sent off at Newcastle on Boxing Day, resulting in a three-match ban.
Aston Villa striker Jhon Durán has scored 12 goals in all competitions so far this season
Durán made a Hammers gesture with his arms during an Instagram live during the offseason
Durán was sent off against Newcastle on Boxing Day for an apparent tackle on Fabián Schar
West Ham have struggled to find good value for money for a striker in recent seasons. Sebastien Haller and Gianluca Scamacca are among those ruled out after big-money moves.
But, with Niclas Fullkrug and Michail Antonio injured, the club are keen to back manager Graham Potter with funds to sign a striker, and Durán, a 21-year-old with a history of scoring goals in England, is an attractive prospect.
Durán's form has also attracted interest from PSG, but the French champions are more likely to make a move in the summer for a player valued at Villa at £80m.
Durán signed a new contract through 2030, including a huge salary increase, just last October.