Chelsea Faces Hurdles in Pursuit of Aston Villa Striker Due to Wage and Attitude Concerns

Aston Villa has granted Chelsea permission to negotiate personal terms with Jhon Duran, though reports highlight two potential stumbling blocks that could jeopardize the transfer.

In a surprising development, Chelsea has targeted Duran to bolster their forward line.

Despite the 20-year-old’s modest record of eight goals in 49 appearances since joining Aston Villa for £18 million in January 2023, Chelsea sees him as a pivotal figure for their upcoming campaigns.

Initially, discussions hinted at a possible swap involving Chelsea’s Conor Gallagher, but the clubs have opted for direct negotiations for Duran. Sources from TEAMtalk confirm that negotiations are progressing towards a £40 million agreement.

According to journalist Matt Law, Aston Villa’s approval for Chelsea to enter contract talks with Duran indicates the deal’s advanced stage.

It is expected that Duran and Chelsea will swiftly reach an agreement on personal terms, following positive initial discussions.

However, reporter Jacob Steinberg casts doubt on the transfer due to two emerging concerns. Firstly, there are apprehensions within Villa regarding Duran’s attitude, which Chelsea has now been made aware of.

Secondly, Duran’s wage demands exceed Chelsea’s financial framework, prompting careful consideration from the club, which has been diligent in managing its wage bill.

Despite these reservations, Chelsea appears poised to proceed with the deal, albeit with an element of risk attached. Villa originally viewed Duran as a long-term project given his youth, making his potential sale particularly timely for the club.

Meanwhile, Chelsea remains open to other striking options should a more suitable candidate become available.

In related developments, Villa is reportedly eyeing former Chelsea forward Tammy Abraham as a potential replacement for Duran, amid competition from Tottenham Hotspur and West Ham United for the 26-year-old’s signature ahead of the 2024-25 season.