By far the biggest piece of West Ham news yesterday was the report that former Hammers transfer target and Al-Nassr striker Jhon Durán was available for loan.
Naturally, two and two were hastily put together, and the young Colombian was quickly linked with a move to the London Stadium.
However, it’s worth remembering the full context behind West Ham’s failed pursuit—and why it’s unlikely to be revived.
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When the Irons first made a move for Durán, the 21-year-old believed the deal was all but done. So confident was he that he even made the crossed hammers gesture on social media, seemingly celebrating his imminent switch from Aston Villa.
Duran poses for West Ham fans as he readies himself to sign
Negotiations reportedly broke down over a £3m difference in valuation, and just like that, the deal collapsed. Durán returned to the Midlands, embarrassed, and with the crossed hammers sign still lingering over him like a bad smell.
But the real kicker came in the aftermath. Sources close to the player confirmed to C&H that his agent was furious and vowed never to deal with the West Ham hierarchy again.
And that’s the crucial detail here. With Durán now being touted for a move away from Al-Nassr, there’s very little chance his camp would even entertain a call from the Hammers—let alone agree terms.
That said, beggars can’t be choosers and if the striker really is desperate to leave Saudi and have guaranteed Premier League football there won’t be too many options.