Chelsea are ready to rival West Ham’s interest in signing Aston Villa forward Jhon Duran this month.
The West Londoners are considering signing a centre-forward before next week’s deadline and are reportedly giving ‘careful consideration’ to a surprise bid for Duran.
The 20-year-old has scored four goals in all competitions this season but has struggled to earn regular minutes given the presence of Ollie Watkins at Villa Park.
West Ham have had a loan approach to sign the Colombian turned down and The Telegraph are reporting that London rivals Chelsea have now expressed interest in signing Duran.
Chelsea’s interest in Duran could hinge on Armando Broja’s future at Stamford Bridge. Several Premier League clubs, which coincidentally include Aston Villa and West Ham, are monitoring the 22-year-old’s situation ahead of a potential move.
Fulham and Wolves have also each been linked with Broja, though none of the interested clubs are currently able to meet Chelsea’s asking price of around £50m.
Villa have begun preparations for Duran’s potential departure. The club have had two bids for Middlesbrough forward Morgan Rogers rejected but are expected to return with an improved offer.
The 21-year-old has been directly involved in 15 goals in all competitions since joining the Championship side from Manchester City in the summer.
