Aston Villa fans have spotted a small detail in one image of Jhon Duran that could reveal the club’s stance on his future.
The future of Aston Villa striker Jhon Duran has dominated the headlines throughout this transfer window.
Chelsea initially wanted Duran while West Ham were said to be leading the race for the striker with all signs pointing towards a departure before the season.
The sale of the 20-year-old was also mentioned to help fund the transfer of Joao Felix from Atletico Madrid, who has since said he’d prefer to join Chelsea this summer.
Following his extended break after reaching the Copa America final with Colombia, Duran has resumed training and could now remain at Villa Park beyond the end of the transfer window.
Journalist Pipe Sierra even said the club intend to give him the iconic number nine shirt, something that eagle-eyed supporters have since spotted.
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Aston Villa fans react as Jhon Duran pictured wearing the No.9 jersey
A picture circulated on social media of Duran wearing a training top with the number nine on the front and this could be potentially massive news for Villa.
Of course, Duran has been lambasted by supporters for disrespecting the club with his controversial ‘irons gesture’ however, some believe he deserves a second chance and being handed the iconic number nine could signify that.
Reacting to this image via X, one supporter said: “That number 9 shirt will be a huge boost to his confidence (not that he lacks it). Big season incoming from the young man. UTV,” while another replied: “My number 9. Go smash it Jhon. UTV.”
A third pointed out the talent he possesses and how Villa can ill-afford to let him join a rival, saying: “I never wanted him to go, really hope he stays, he is a real game changer and will only get better. His attitude is not completely unusual for his age. He is a maverick and a talent that we need to hold on to for now. A move to another prem team is not an option.”
Another supporter even said that if he can get his attitude in line, he’d take Duran over signing Felix, saying: “Tbh if he could get his attitude right I would 100% keep him over signing Felix but that don’t seem like it’s going to happen.”
“I cant explain how much I love the decision to give him the number 9,” a sixth replied. While a seventh added: “Jhon is smiling at his HATERS after being given the number nine shirt!!..get in there.”
Jhon Duran could be worth the risk
Duran is one of the most talented young strikers on the planet and Villa have discovered how difficult it is to find a replacement for the 20-year-old.
Last season, he was an exceptional deputy to Watkins and in the victory over Liverpool, his brace all but secured Champions League qualification.
If his attitude and conduct weren’t so bad, there would be no questions over his future and Villa would want to keep him for years to come.
However, following his comments about Chelsea and the infamous ‘irons’ gesture, his future at the club was put in jeopardy as supporters were left seething by his actions.
It’s placed Emery in a difficult position, as he’s clearly the perfect backup striker to Watkins and has the potential to become a long-term heir to the Englishman.
So, if the club are willing to give him another chance, which handing him the number nine jersey suggests they are, Duran will either repay them clinically with impressive performances on the pitch or continue to let his off-field issues dominate the headlines. There’s no in-between.
For the Villans’ sake, let’s hope Duran matures into the person and striker the fans dream of watching for years to come.
