Chelsea are interested in a move for Aston Villa youngster Jhon Duran… with Blues chiefs considering offers for striker Armando Broja
- Aston Villa’s rising star Jhon Duran is attracting a lot of interest from Chelsea
- Villa have already taken the lead and rejected an approach for Duran from West Ham
- It is mindless to doubt David Moyes at West Ham. Listen to It all starts
Chelsea continues to show interest in Aston Villa striker Jhon Duran.
Duran’s suitability has previously been discussed by Chelsea as they consider offers for Armando Broja.
Villa have already rejected an inquiry from West Ham for Duran this month as they want to ensure they have cover.
Villa are expected to continue talks with Middlesbrough for Morgan Rogers and, if successful, consider an approach for Duran.
For now, Duran will remain alongside Unai Emery as they look to continue their bid for a top-four finish.
Mauricio Pochettino (right) and Chelsea follow Aston Villa star Jhon Duran (left)
Duran has scored four goals this season – two of which came in the Premier League – and it wasn’t long before rivals started to worry about the 20-year-old.
The Colombian left for Villa in an £18 million deal from Chicago Fire last January.
One of the sticking points at Chelsea is guaranteeing regular playing time, with Duran already making 35 appearances for Villa this season.
Forward has been a problem position for Chelsea this season as Nicolas Jackson was away at the Africa Cup of Nations, while both Christopher Nkunku and Armando Broja have struggled with injuries.
The young striker has four goals to his name this season and is starting to stand out
The key to Duran appears to be Villa’s public pursuit of Rogers, who scored for Middlesbrough in Tuesday’s 6-1 Carabao Cup semi-final defeat to Chelsea.
Villa made an improved offer for Rogers earlier this week after their first two proposals were rejected by the Championship club.
Manchester City will owe a sell-on fee if the 21-year-old, who cost Boro £1million in the summer, leaves.
Villa have also called on Icelandic goalkeeper Hakon Valdimarsson from Swedish side Elfsborg.
Valdimarsson, 22, said: “They are a top club in the Premier League and they are playing very well. It’s nice to see that they are interested. It shows that I played well last season.’