Barcelona had enquired about Jhon Duran long before he signed a new deal at Aston Villa, making him unreachable.
According to TBR, Barcelona was one of the clubs that enquired about Jhon Duran long before he signed a new deal with Aston Villa. The Colombian striker was rewarded for his hot streak this season, as the new contract makes him untouchable right now.
Did clubs miss a trick with Jhon Duran when they baulked at his reported £50 million asking price? At this point, it certainly feels that way, as Aston Villa might have done themselves a favour by resisting some offers that came their way for the Colombian striker.
Recently, it was revealed that West Ham director Tim Steidten was disappointed by the club’s inability to close the Duran transfer. The club did not want to go close to the asking price of £50 million for an Aston Villa star. The same might be the case with Chelsea, who had a real interest in the Colombian forward.
Now, a host of continental sides, including Barcelona, also made enquiries. Much like the other interested parties, the Catalans baulked at the asking price as they continued to struggle with their financial issues, which would have made the deal unprecedented even at a lower price point. With Duran signing a new contract, he will not be untouchable as a transfer target for many clubs.
The Catalans had a need for a striker or, in general, an attacker, as they also missed out on Nico Williams due to the same financial issues. Despite Barcelona’s enquiry, a move might have been impossible given their situation. Still, Duran could have moved to one of West Ham or Chelsea, given those sides had the money, but chose not to meet the valuation for the £50 million Aston Villa star.
Aston Villa benefitted from their Duran stance
The club decided Duran was not for sale, although truth be told, Aston Villa was open to selling Duran if someone met their asking price. The fact that Duran has been the star of their season so far has made him reach new heights after scoring the winner against Bayern Munich in the Champions League. The new contract was expected to arrive following some top-level performances in this campaign.
Hence, keeping Duran worked out well for Villa, who will not entertain any approaches for the attacker in the future windows. With a long-term deal in place, Duran’s place in Unai Emery’s setup is now confirmed to be an important one, and the striker might begin his big push for a regular starting berth.
