Sky Sports: West Ham identify “special” star as top Lopetegui target, he wants to join

West Ham United have identified Aston Villa striker Jhon Duran as their primary target this summer, with a reported £40million price tag.

The Colombian forward struggled for minutes last season, starting just three league games, but still managed to score eight goals. West Ham are looking to replace Michail Antonio, who is nearing the end of his career, and Duran has been described as “special” by Villa manager Unai Emery.According to Sky Sports reporter Dharmesh Sheth, West Ham are expected to make an approach for Duran, who is eager to leave Villa Park in search of regular playing time.

Chelsea were previously interested in the 20-year-old, but their interest has reportedly gone cold. West Ham, however, are keen to sign Duran, who has already agreed to join the club, according to Fabrizio Romano.Duran’s statistics compare favorably to those of Michail Antonio, with the Colombian averaging more shots and expected goals per 90 minutes than the West Ham striker.

West Ham are looking to strengthen their attack, and Duran’s signing would be a significant coup for the club.In addition to Duran, West Ham are also interested in signing Nice defender Jean-Clair Todibo, who has been linked with Manchester United. Todibo would join new signing Max Kilman in bolstering West Ham’s defense, which conceded more goals than any side outside the bottom three last season.

West Ham’s new manager, Julen Lopetegui, is looking to strengthen his squad this summer, and the signings of Duran and Todibo would be a significant statement of intent. The club are looking to rebuild after a disappointing season, and the arrival of Lopetegui and technical director Tim Steidten is expected to bring a new era of success to the London Stadium.With West Ham’s interest in Duran and Todibo, the club are signaling their ambition to compete with the top teams in the Premier League.

The signings would be a significant upgrade to the squad, and would provide Lopetegui with the tools he needs to succeed in his new role.In other news, West Ham are also interested in signing Southampton defender Kyle Walker-Peters, who is expected to leave the Saints this summer. The club are looking to strengthen their defense, and Walker-Peters would be a welcome addition to the squad.

Overall, West Ham are looking to make a statement in the transfer market this summer, and the signings of Duran, Todibo, and Walker-Peters would be a significant coup for the club. With Lopetegui at the helm, West Ham are looking to build a team that can compete with the best in the Premier League, and the club’s fans are eagerly anticipating the new season.