Chelsea and West Ham United are both in talks over a potential deal to sign Aston Villa attacking sensation Jhon Duran.
According to a report from HITC, Chelsea and West Ham United are looking to reinforce their attack ahead of next season, and they have their eyes set on Jhon Duran. The Colombian striker is looking to part ways with Aston Villa, who are also willing to cash in on the young prospect.
Duran arrived at Villa Park in the winter of 2023 after making a name for himself at Major League Soccer club Chicago Fire. Since joining the Premier League club, he has been involved in a total of 49 matches and has even contributed with eight goals.
He managed to score five goals in the English top flight last season in less than 500 minutes. While Unai Emery has been full of praises for the 20-year-old, it seems he has no future at Aston Villa. Despite having four years left on his deal, the player is keen on making a move away and even the club are on the same page.
Aston Villa are gearing up for Champions League football next season. They have already made six signings so far and are looking to add a few more players to the mix. Their budget was boosted following Douglas Luiz’s move to Juventus, and they are now looking to further boost it by sanctioning the departure of Duran.
Chelsea and West Ham keen on Duran
Chelsea and West Ham United are two clubs keen on his signature. While the Blues are looking to bring in a world-class striker who can lead the line, they would welcome the addition of Duran as he will add depth and could become an integral part of their first team in the long run.
Meanwhile, the Hammers lack depth up top. Michail Antonio is already 34, while Danny Ings is also on the wrong side of 30. So, West Ham are looking for a young striker who can help them in the long run, and Duran seems to be an ideal fit for their setup.
Both Chelsea and West Ham are holding discussions regarding a move for the Colombian striker. While they do consider Aston Villa’s valuation of over £40 million to be a touch on the higher side, there is a belief that Villa would allow significant add-ons as part of the deal’s structure.
While both clubs are yet to submit an offer for his services, they could soon make a move, with Aston Villa likely to accept a lower fee provided the offer has significant add-ons. His departure will give them enough funds to bring a young striker who can support Ollie Watkins.
