West Ham are reportedly revitalising talks to sign Fluminense forward Jhon Arias ahead of the January transfer window, as reported by RTI Esporte.
The Hammers did hold talks over a potential deal for the Colombian in the summer but not enough was done in order to get a deal over the line. But it’s believed West Ham’s current striker issues, with Niclas Fullkrug sidelined long term through injury and Julen Lopetegui now overly reliant on Michail Antonio, has led to the club looking to explore the possibility of finally getting a deal done.
It is, of course, the second Colombian striker named Jhon West Ham have been interested in, with reports throughout the summer and leading up to January highlighting the Hammers’ concrete interest in Aston Villa’s Duran.
However, the Premier League striker has hit the ground running for the Midland’s outfit this season, which would make it a lot harder for West Ham to return to the negotiating table this winter and get favourable deal financially.
It’s not yet known how much Fluminense would be willing to accept for Arias’ signature but the report claims the Brazilian club believes his exit is ‘inevitable.’
Arias has a contract until 2026 and while West Ham haven’t yet contacted his club over a potential deal, it’s believed some communication with the player’s representatives have already taken place.
The 27-year-old forward, who can play as either a shadow striker or right winger has scored 13 goals and assisted eight more in 47 appearances in all competitions this season, and has 83 goal contributions in 189 first-team outings for the club since signing from Independiente Sante Fe in 2021.
Where Arias’ namesake and compatriot Duran is concerned, the Hammers have reportedly not given up hope of bringing him to London Stadium either, with recent reports claiming they may look to exploit his current frustration at not starting more games under Unai Emery by making another approach in January.
