Transfers
Jhon Duran has already answered Chelsea transfer question as Todd Boehly sent ‘dream’ message
Colombian professional footballer Jhon Duran may join Chelsea before the end of the January transfer window, reports revealed.
Speculations are that Chelsea has received a significant boost, enhancing their chances of securing the 20-year-old’s signature.
Jhon Duran had been strongly linked with a move to Chelsea as Mauricio Pochettino aims to strengthen his attacking options before the January transfer window closes.
Duran, who transferred from Chicago Fire to Aston Villa last year, has made 14 appearances for Unai Emery‘s team in the Premier League this season.
Despite scoring twice and providing one assist, his goal tally remains relatively low due to limited playing time. The Colombian young talent is yet to start a match in the English top flight and has averaged less than 15 minutes per appearance.
Duran has struggled to find opportunities in the Premier League this season due to Ollie Watkins’ impressive performances.
Watkins has scored nine goals and provided eight assists, leaving Duran with limited playing time and only occasional appearances in the Europa League.
The Telegraph states that the Blues are considering making a bid for the young player before the January transfer window closes. However, Aston Villa has already rejected an enquiry from West Ham regarding Duran.
The report also mentions that Duran desires more game time.
However, it seems unlikely that Chelsea can make any promises in this regard, as Duran is ineligible to play in the Carabao Cup and FA Cup due to being cup-tied. Additionally, Chelsea already has Armando Broja, Christopher Nkunku (who will soon return from injury), and Nicolas Jackson (who is expected to return from the Africa Cup of Nations).
Nevertheless, Duran may be willing to make certain sacrifices to fulfil his “dream” of joining Chelsea.
In an interview with Colombian outlet Win Sports TV earlier this month, Duran was asked about the speculation linking him with Chelsea and AC Milan.
“I remain focussed on Aston Villa,” he said, as quoted by the Metro.
“I am not aware of interest from AC Milan or Chelsea. They are giant clubs, and it would be a pleasure. But I have no knowledge of anything. As a child you dream of playing there.”
The potential arrival of Duran has cast doubt over the future of Broja.
Before Chelsea’s Carabao Cup semi-final second leg against Middlesbrough, Pochettino was asked to comment on the Cobham graduate.
“At the moment, [there is] no news,” said the Blues boss. “We cannot update in any way. It’s all so quiet and I think that’s a good thing because we are working well.”
Then, when pushed for an update on any potential signings this month, Pochettino replied: “No update. No news about players that can come in.”
