June 11th 2024.
Chelsea's search for a new striker has led them back to Aston Villa's Jhon Duran. The Blues had initially set their sights on RB Leipzig's Benjamin Sesko, but the youngster has decided to stay with his current club for now. With the need for support and competition for Nicolas Jackson, Chelsea has identified Duran as a potential solution.
Sesko's impressive record of 14 goals in 31 Bundesliga games last season had caught the attention of top European clubs, including Arsenal and Manchester United. However, the 21-year-old has opted to extend his contract with RB Leipzig, leaving Chelsea to explore other options. This has brought Duran back into the picture, as he had been heavily linked with the Blues during the January transfer window.
According to reports, Duran's availability has also been boosted by his desire to join Chelsea and the good relationship between the two clubs. The 20-year-old has been playing second fiddle to Ollie Watkins at Aston Villa and would welcome a move to Stamford Bridge to work with Enzo Maresca.
Another potential option for Chelsea is Bournemouth's Dominic Solanke, but the Championship club's hefty £65 million release clause may deter any potential suitors. Duran, on the other hand, joined Aston Villa in 2023 from Chicago Fire and has already established himself as a key player for the club, scoring five goals in his first full season.
The Colombian international has expressed his admiration for Chelsea in the past but remains focused on his current club. His agent, Jonathan Herrera, has also confirmed the Blues' interest in his client, even before the departure of former manager Mauricio Pochettino.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding Chelsea's managerial position, Duran's agent believes that the club's interest in his client remains strong. Herrera believes that it is ultimately up to the club to make a move for the talented forward, and they are ready to handle any potential negotiations with Aston Villa.
In other Chelsea news, the club has also been linked with a move for AC Milan's Hakan Calhanoglu. However, it remains to be seen if the Blues will make a bid for the Turkish midfielder, with the summer transfer window heating up. Fans can expect more updates and analysis on all things Chelsea by signing up for exclusive news and content.
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