The Blues ready to pounce on Aston Villa’s John Duran 

Even after Mauricio Pochettino’s departure, Chelsea remains interested in Aston Villa attacker Jhon Duran. The 20-year-old Colombian forward has been the subject of conjecture for several months, and Chelsea’s interest remains strong despite the recent managerial change at Stamford Bridge.

The Blues tried to sign him on loan in January, but they had to pull out due to his injury when playing against Everton that month. Jonathan Herrera, Duran’s agent, indicated in an interview with El VBar Caracol that Chelsea’s interest in the young attacker is long-term and sincere.

“The interest has always existed,” he stated. “The fact that Pochettino continues or leaves the club should not affect. Duran is a player who, whether they change coaches or not, is something we will see what happens, but there has always been an interest. Let’s see how we can handle it and make sure Aston Villa is ready.”

Chelsea understands that enticing Duran away from Villa will not be an easy feat. He was signed from MLS team Chicago Fire in January 2023 for a rumoured fee of up to £18 million ($22 million), and he has a contract with the club until 2028. As a result, Villa would be sure to profit handsomely from the transfer, especially following his heroics against Liverpool, in which he scored a brace to keep the Reds at 3-3.

Herrera said: “He is a player who has a contract with Aston Villa, he ended up doing things very well and the coach is counting on him. It is a club that has gotten into the Champions League. It is a great opportunity, but we know that he wants to play, he wants to go out and play, let’s see. Now the market is opening, the club is looking at some options and so are we.”

Duran key motivation is a desire for greater playing time. Last season, he started only three Premier League games for Villa, spending most of his time on the bench. This limited role has frustrated the young striker, who wants to show himself on a greater stage. If Chelsea can give him minutes, the player should be willing to move to Stamford Bridge – as long as the Blues agree on a transfer deal with Villa.