Jhon Duran told to ‘stay quiet’ at Aston Villa after West Ham United transfer developments
Jhon Duran still “has something to offer” Aston Villa but Alan Hutton has told him to “stay quiet” as he’s linked with a transfer to West Ham United.
The Colombian forward has been a target for the Hammers throughout the transfer window, with reports suggesting the two clubs have been unable to agree on a transfer fee and deal structure [Fabrizio Romano, 25 July].
Julen Lopetgeui’s side instead turned to sign Borussia Dortmund striker Niclas Fullkrug, but they are understood to retain an interest in Duran and would consider signing him as well the German international [Alex Crook, 4 August].
Although Hutton believes Unai Emery will not be happy with the forward’s behaviour, particularly when he did the Irons gesture live on social media, he believes he can still play a major role at Villa Park this term.
“I don’t think it’s wise move to be doing stuff like that,” Hutton exclusively told Villa News.
“I mean, if there’s transfer speculation around you, even if you would like the move, just stay quiet.
“Keep your head down, work hard within pre-season and see what happens. Maybe I’m a little bit old school in that way.
“I know he’s young, but I feel that a couple of weeks ago before the Fullkrug move, it was really heating up and it was going to happen.
“Has that made it a little bit harder? We’ll have to wait and see, but I like him as a player and I feel that he has something to offer Aston Villa.
“I liked him when he played last season, he may feel that he needs to get that move to get the game time that he wants and I agree with that.
“But if he was to leave, Villa would have to bring somebody else in.”
Will Jhon Duran exit Aston Villa amid West Ham transfer rumours?
Villa are not blessed with loads of striking options heading into the new season and as Hutton suggests, Duran will have to be replaced if he does make the move to the London Stadium ahead of the deadline.
The issue the Villans will face is that few players who are as effective as the 20-year-old will be willing to play second fiddle to Ollie Watkins who will almost certainly lead the line again this term.
If both Duran and Emery can move past the events of the last couple of months, the forward could still go on to have an impressive career at Villa Park.
But for that to happen, he is going to have to”stay quiet” as Hutton suggests and let his football do the talking on the pitch.
In other Aston Villa news, Villa are ready to “cash in” on Diego Carlos after a new Fulham transfer development emerged
For more Aston Villa news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.