Chicago Fire striker Jhon Duran has been linked with a move to Liverpool in recent weeks, but the Reds have bowed out of the race.
Italian journalist Raffaele Amato from Calciomercato has claimed that Liverpool have now abandoned their pursuit of 19-year-old Colombian striker Jhon Duran. Apparently, Aston Villa have joined the race for the player and have submitted an offer to the player as well.
Furthermore, the likes of Benfica and Red Bull Salzburg are keen on signing the Chicago Fire striker as well. Duran has eight goals and six assists to his name in 28 appearances for the MLS club, and he could prove to be a quality long-term acquisition for Aston Villa.
The likes of Danny Ings and Ollie Watkins have not been consistent in front of goal this season. So it is no surprise that Unai Emery is looking to improve his attacking department, bringing the 19-year-old South American striker into the picture.
The player has a contract with the MLS club until the summer of 2024, and it remains to be seen whether Villa can sign him for a reasonable price this month. The 19-year-old has the potential to develop into a quality player, and it will be interesting to see how the situation develops over the next few days.
Meanwhile, Liverpool needed to improve their attacking options, and they have done so with the arrival of Cody Gakpo from PSV Eindhoven. It is no surprise that they have abandoned their pursuit of the Colombian striker now.
Liverpool already have Darwin Nunez, Cody Gakpo and Roberto Firmino as options to lead the line. Furthermore, Luis Diaz and Diogo Jota are expected to return from their injuries later this season. The 19-year-old would have struggled for regular game time, and he is better off joining another club. He has been linked with Manchester United as well.
As for Liverpool, they should look to focus on improving their midfield now. They have been linked with a number of top-class midfielders in recent weeks, and it will be interesting to see if Jurgen Klopp can bring in a quality central midfielder before the January transfer window closes. The Reds have had a poor season so far, and they will be under pressure to secure a top four finish.
