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Barcelona have been scouring European football for their next answer in the number nine position, recognizing that Robert Lewandowski will turn 37 next August, even if his contract continues until next season. One of the names they have identified as a possible successor is the subject of a major transfer offer in the Premier League.
Colombia and Aston Villa striker Jhon Durán has been in good form this season, sharing number nine duties with Ollie Watkins up front. Unai Emery’s preference for using one or the other has generated much speculation that someone could replace Durán and offer him a starting position.
At the very least, West Ham United believe they can do so successfully. According to David Ornstein of The Athletic, West Ham have made an offer for just over €67 million for Durán, not including various add-ons. However, Villa are expected to reject the offer as they have no intention of selling Durán, especially in January.
🚨 EXCL: West Ham makes an offer to sign Jhon Durán from Aston Villa. #WHUFC offer worth £57 million, including additions. It is expected to be rejected – #AVFC I have no intention of selling the 21-year-old striker; recently extended until 2030 amid strong interest from elsewhere @ElAthleticFC https://t.co/HGWWNG8EjK
– David Ornstein (@David_Ornstein) January 20, 2025
Durán recently extended his contract with Villa until 2030, giving them a strong negotiating position. That is probably the biggest obstacle for Barcelona to have the opportunity to add him in the near future, despite being back within their salary cap and the 1:1 rule. It would have to be a significant fee to tempt Villa to accept him.
The Barça plane from El Prat to Lisbon still cannot take off. The weather is very bad in Lisbon, with rain and fog. The players are waiting on the plane, but they will arrive very late. @JosepSoldado
— Barcacentre (@barcacentre) January 20, 2025
Rumors in the Catalan capital say that along with Aleksander Isak of Newcastle United, Durán is one of the preferred targets for the coming years and the number nine position. They met with Durán’s agents in December, simply to canvass his interest in moving to Barcelona, rather than negotiate numbers with them, and an imminent move is not expected. However, if Villa are unable to offer the 21-year-old a starting role at short notice, it would not be a surprise if Durán was on the move.
