Jhon Duran talks frantic as Napoli ready Aston Villa transfer

Napoli are plotting a transfer swoop for Jhon Duran after being "bewitched" by the Aston Villa striker, according to Il Mattino.

The Naples-based newspaper reported via their website on Tuesday (17 December) that the Serie A giants are already in touch with Villa intermediaries to negotiate a transfer, with discussions so far described as "frantic".

Napoli are aware that signing the Colombia international is not easy due to his stature in Birmingham but are hopeful of completing a deal for around £28.9-33million.

Jhon Duran transfer on cards at Aston Villa as Napoli twist drops

It is hard to see Aston Villa sanctioning a transfer for Duran, especially for a sum of £33m.

The 21-year-old is in red-hot form for Unai Emery's side this season, bagging 11 goals from 24 appearances across all competitions.

It is worth noting that he is contracted to the Villa Park outfit until 2030 after putting pen to paper on a fresh deal in October.

Therefore, it will likely take more than £33m to prise Duran away from Aston Villa.

However, it would not be a surprise if the Birmingham-based club opened up to the idea of selling the striker as they were prepared to sanction an exit in the summer.

Napoli's interest in signing Duran could also explain why Villa are among the suitors for Greek prospect Stefanos Tzimas [Patrick Berger].

Tzimas is on loan at Nurnberg from PAOK and has bagged seven goals and two assists in 13 league games for them so far this season.

In other Aston Villa news, this player could also be on his way out of Villa Park in the January transfer window.

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