Aston Villa striker Jhon Duran is starting to look like the one that got away for Chelsea.
Chelsea were keen on signing the Colombian during the summer. Chelsea’s interest in Jhon Duran stretched all the way into deadline day, but they could not bring him to west London in the end.
The 20-year-old remained at Aston Villa and Unai Emery will be glad that he did. Thanks to Duran, Villa were able to beat Bayern Munich 1-0 in the Champions League on Wednesday night, with the forward coming on to score an incredible goal.
Chelsea have not done too badly without him, though. Enzo Maresca‘s men are currently fourth in the Premier League table, sitting above Emery’s side on goal difference.
Chelsea were close to striking agreement for Jhon Duran
Chelsea agreeing a fee with Villa for Duran did not look to be too much of a problem.
According to the Evening Standard, Chelsea were close to reaching an agreement with Villa for the Colombia international.
However, where they hit a stumbling block was with his wages. The same outlet claims that Duran was hoping for a larger salary than what Chelsea were offering.
No agreement was reached with either the club or the player and Duran, of course, ended up staying at Villa Park.
Chelsea’s London rivals West Ham United could now make a move for Duran in the January transfer window.
Chelsea could still have chance to sign Jhon Duran
It is not impossible that Chelsea get their hands on Duran eventually. Villa will not want to sell the former Chicago Fire star, given the form that he is in.
However, with Ollie Watkins around, Emery cannot guarantee Duran starts. Nearly all of his appearances this season have been from off the bench.
In fact, Duran is yet to start a game in the Premier League. If that does not change, you can imagine him eventually pushing for a move, especially with his stock going up.
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