Transfer expert Graeme Bailey has explained where Aston Villa currently stand with striker Jhon Duran.
The summer transfer window has been a success so far at Aston Villa although, Unai Emery and Monchi are being tested by one possible departure.
Jhon Duran’s future has been widely speculated as interest from Chelsea and West Ham has been listed this summer.
Duran’s immature actions on social media have seen Villa fans fall out of love with the Colombian, blowing his chances of possibly reconnecting with the club.
Aston Villa face a real transfer problem with Jhon Duran amid West Ham update
First Chelsea were interested in Duran, which was retracted as other options were explored, and then West Ham approached Villa for the 20-year-old.
Unfortunately for the striker, it seems as though the Hammers’ interest is steering in the same direction as Chelsea’s, with the East Londoners now eyeing an alternative.
Speaking exclusively to Aston Villa News, HITC journalist Graeme Bailey warned that Villa may be heading towards a ‘messy’ situation concerning Duran.
“As it stands the Duran deal is off, Villa are standing firm on their valuation and the player has made it clear he wants to move, which he is well within his rights given he knows that he is not really wanted.
“Will West Ham come back for him? It’s hard to tell given there are options available to them.
“The ball is in Villa’s court now, if they don’t drop from £40m then he isn’t leaving – but they are left with a player who they don’t want and who wants to leave – it could get messy.”
What is next for Duran?
As Bailey explained, Emery does not see Duran in his plans, similar to Duran’s views on his future being away from Villa Park.
The 20-year-old wants to be the first choice to lead the line, which is understandable given his talent however, there are few opportunities better than his position currently at Villa.
Duran has been called the ‘heir to Ollie Watkins’, with his potential incredibly high having shown his potency in front of goal so early into his career in England.
The messy situation that is forecast comes frustratingly as a result of the player’s misguidance and lack of professionalism, something that Emery is not expected to stand for.
Now that West Ham are eyeing alternatives, Duran could find himself in a less desired position than he might have hoped this summer, with Villa right to stand firm on their asking price.
