Jhon Duran is emerging as one of the Premier League’s brightest young talents. At just 20 years old, the Colombian striker’s future at Aston Villa was uncertain during the summer due to the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability rules (PSR), which nearly forced the club to sell him.
He was close to securing a move to West Ham, and there was strong interest from Chelsea.
However, to the relief of Aston Villa fans and manager Unai Emery, Duran stayed at Villa Park, where he has quickly proven his worth.
Duran has started the 2023-2024 season in remarkable fashion, making a significant impact despite not starting any of Villa’s first nine matches.
The young forward has already netted six goals, including a crucial game-winning strike in a Champions League match against Bayern Munich.
His electric form has caught the attention of many, and his performances have turned him into one of the most exciting prospects in English football.
Now, according to reports from **Fichajes**, Arsenal has entered the race for Duran’s signature. Mikel Arteta, Arsenal’s head coach, is reportedly a big admirer of the Aston Villa striker.
Arteta sees Duran as the solution to Arsenal’s ongoing issues in the forward line and is eager for the club’s owner, Stan Kroenke, to make a bold move to bring the young Colombian to the Emirates Stadium. It’s believed a potential deal for Duran could be valued at up to £60 million.
Arsenal’s interest in Duran is understandable. While the club signed Gabriel Jesus from Manchester City, the Brazilian striker has struggled with injuries since his arrival. As a result, Arteta has often had to rely on Kai Havertz to play as a striker, even though Havertz is more accustomed to playing in midfield, particularly during his time at Chelsea.
This tactical adjustment has prompted Arteta to search for a more natural center-forward, and Duran’s skillset makes him an ideal candidate.
Duran brings a combination of youth, speed, technical ability, and a clinical edge in front of goal. These qualities make him a valuable asset, not just for the present, but for the future as well.
Arteta is reportedly keen to add Duran to his squad and believes the 20-year-old could develop into a leading forward for years to come if given the opportunity to play in North London, rather than remaining in the Midlands with Aston Villa.
Since his debut for Aston Villa 18 months ago, Duran has demonstrated his potential, scoring 14 goals in 58 appearances across all competitions.
With three-and-a-half years left on his contract, Villa will be eager to hold onto him, but with the interest from major clubs like Arsenal, it remains to be seen if they can resist the temptation to cash in on their talented young striker.
Ultimately, the competition for Duran’s signature is heating up, and with Arsenal keen to bolster their attacking options, the next few months could determine whether the Colombian continues his development at Villa or makes a high-profile move to a top club like Arsenal.
