Chelsea is set to strengthen their offensive line-up with the acquisition of Jhon Duran, Aston Villa’s striker, in a deal reportedly worth £42 million. This information comes from Colombian sources.
The move is seen as a strategy to enhance their attacking prowess and offer Nicolas Jackson, who netted 17 goals in the previous season but has been inconsistent, some competition.
Duran, a 20-year-old Colombian international, became part of Aston Villa 17 months prior, moving from the MLS team, Chicago Fire, for a sum of £18 million.
Despite this, securing a consistent starting position under Villa’s manager, Unai Emery, has been a challenge.
Emery’s preference leans towards Ollie Watkins as the primary striker, with Leon Bailey and Moussa Diaby providing support in the offensive line. Duran has only started three Premier League games this season.
Chelsea’s interest in Duran was completely evident during the January transfer window, and they have now reportedly reached an agreement with Aston Villa for his transfer according to a statement by Guillermo Arango, a Colombian journalist.
Contract discussions between the London-based club and Jhon Duran are currently underway.
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During the last month, Jonathan Herrera, Jhon Duran’s agent, spoke to indicate the frustration of the player with the little playing time he has been getting at Aston Villa.
” It is a club that, in having gotten into the Champions League, presents a huge opportunity. But we know he wants to play more. We will see what happens.”
Chelsea’s interest in Duran was again confirmed by Herrera, who said it was irrespective of the changes in the managerial post. After mentioning the Pochettino issue, the coach added, “It doesn’t matter that Pochettino may change his mind and stay.
It has to do with the interest of the club itself. Whether it is with the coach or not, the interest remains). Let’s see how we can work our way around this and get Aston Villa ready.”
In other transfer developments, Aston Villa is nearing the completion of a deal to sell Douglas Luiz to Juventus for £16.8 million. The agreement also involves the transfer of United States midfielder Weston McKennie and 20-year-old winger Samuel Iling-Junior.
