Aston Villa might look stupid after new Jhon Duran transfer development
Dan Bardell accepts Aston Villa have the potential to look stupid if Jhon Duran is sold to West Ham and ends up becoming a “world beater” even amid an off-field concern.
talkSPORT reported (4 July) that the Hammers are set to rival Chelsea to sign the Colombian from the Villans this summer.
The Guardian have suggested (14 June) that the 20-year-old could cost any potential suitors up to £40million, which may prove a stumbling block for the likes of the Hammers.
Sky Sports journalist Bardell alluded to the fact that Duran’s social-media antics last season mean it would be worth cashing in, though admitted a player of his potential could end up making the decision look silly.
Speaking exclusively to Villa News, Bardell said: “I think for Jhon Duran’s career West Ham would be a better move than Chelsea. They have been searching for a striker for a long time
“If they spend the money that Villa want on him you know he is going there to play and be part of the team. If Chelsea sign him, there’s no guarantee that he’d be any better off.
“Obviously the PSR stuff is alleviated now so a sale isn’t as pressing as it was but the off-the-pitch stuff puts it in Villa’s interest to sell and invest elsewhere.
“If he has his heart set on leaving then it’ll probably suit all parties for a deal to be done. The problem is that he could become a world beater then Villa look a bit stupid. I still think Villa are better off selling him.“
Aston Villa could sell Jhon Duran to West Ham
The Colombian has been a controversial figure at Villa Park in recent months after his social media activity was scrutinised by supporters.
Duran was spotted liking various posts from other clubs and reports linking him with a move away from the Villans, both in January and this summer.
A move to Chelsea now appears to have cooled off and a transfer to the London Stadium feels more likely despite a fee not yet being agreed.
Ollie Watkins is always going to be the starting striker under Emery and if the 20-year-old doesn’t like it, a sale could make sense this summer.
In other Aston Villa news, Tyrone Mings may struggle to reclaim a starting XI spot next season after injury layoff.
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