Aston Villa stand firm on Jhon Duran stance amid renewed transfer interest from West Ham | OneFootball

Hammers hoping to strengthen in attack this month but Duran has contract at Villa through to 2030

Aston Villa have no intention of selling Jhon Duran, amid renewed interest from West Ham.

The Hammers want to sign a new forward in the final two weeks of the January window and have identified Duran as a target.

West Ham are long-term admirers of the 21-year-old Colombia international, who has scored 12 goals in all competitions for Villa this season.

But Duran recently signed a contract extension until 2030 and Villa have made it clear they do not want to sell him this month.

Ollie Watkins has often been the preferred central striker at Villa but Unai Emery said last week that both Watkins and Duran are a big part of his plans at Villa Park.

“Now, players are extending their careers, and maybe Ollie, with his capacity, his physical capacity, can play until 40 years old.

“Pepe Reina, he was at Aston Villa, yes? He’s 42 and playing in Italy. Ollie? Why not? I’m happy with both strikers, and it’s a privilege for me to train them.”

Graham Potter said last week there is a “logical rationale” for West Ham to sign a forward in January.

West Ham are considering their options after losing £27million summer signing Niclas Fullkrug to a hamstring injury.

Fullkrug is facing months out and his injury is another blow for the Hammers, who are already without Jarrod Bowen and Michail Antonio.

Bowen is out until at least next month with a fractured foot, while Antonio will not play again this season after breaking his leg in a car crash in December.