West Ham United have been focused on acquiring a forward since signing Max Kilman two weeks ago. Discussions have taken place with Aston Villa regarding a deal for Jhon Duran. Additionally, West Ham has shown interest in Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Callum Wilson, and Youssef En-Nesyri.
Back in early May, Hammers News revealed that Moroccan striker En-Nesyri was on a list of targets provided by Julen Lopetegui during his interview for the West Ham manager position. En-Nesyri had previously played some of the best football of his career under Lopetegui at Sevilla, and the two have a strong professional relationship.
En-Nesyri has previously declined moves to West Ham in recent seasons. However, with Lopetegui now at the London Stadium, there was renewed confidence that West Ham could successfully sign the 27-year-old, especially since Sevilla were looking to sell him for £17 million due to financial difficulties.
Journalist Graeme Bailey recently informed Hammers News that En-Nesyri was growing impatient waiting for West Ham to make their move. Last week, it was reported that En-Nesyri had rejected offers from Jose Mourinho’s Fenerbahce and Saudi clubs as he waited for West Ham to bid for him. Earlier today, Marca reported that Fenerbahce president Ali Koç pressured En-Nesyri to sign within 48 hours, stating, “We really wanted En-Nesyri, we still do, but we are running out of patience. I have given Mario Branco (Fenerbahce’s sporting director) 48 hours. If it happens, it happens; if it doesn’t happen, we will go for options B, C, D or E.”
It appears this pressure has worked, as breaking news on Sunday evening revealed that En-Nesyri is set to sign for Fenerbahce for £13.5 million, even less than what West Ham was reportedly quoted. Topskills Sports UK reported that all documents have been exchanged between the two clubs, and an official announcement will be made once the paperwork is completed.
Meanwhile, West Ham has reconsidered their pursuit of Calvert-Lewin and Wilson. The club will not be signing the Everton striker due to his high fee, wage demands, and injury record. Wilson, who will be 33 next season, has also sustained another injury that will sideline him for the start of the season.
It seems all paths now lead to Jhon Duran for West Ham. Yesterday, it was claimed that Napoli approached Aston Villa about a potential deal for Duran, but the Italians were reportedly told that the Colombian will be signing for West Ham. With En-Nesyri now off the table, West Ham is likely to intensify their efforts to secure Duran.
