Chelsea ‘step up Jhon Duran interest to bolster attack in shock transfer with Villa ace desperate for first-team action’

CHELSEA have reportedly stepped up their interest in Aston Villa star Jhon Duran.

The striker, 20, has emerged as a shock target for Todd Boehly ahead of deadline day next week.

Chelsea are on the hunt for a hitman with Nicolas Jackson and Armando Broja struggling for consistency.

Karim Benzema is a potential option on loan after becoming unhappy at Al-Ittihad.

But the claims Duran is a more realistic target due to his young age and smaller wages.

The six-time Colombia international only joined Villa a year ago from Chicago Fire in an £18million switch.

And Duran has since scored four goals in 35 appearances, with most of his minutes coming as a sub.

But the youngster is eyeing an exit as he seeks more regular opportunities.

Villa are said to have already turned down a loan bid from West Ham.

And they could be open to doing business with Chelsea should they complete a deal for Middlesbrough star Morgan Rogers.

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Duran’s potential Stamford Bridge move could rest on the shoulders of outgoings though.

Albania striker Broja is up for sale and has been slapped with a hefty £50million price-tag.

Chelsea could also listen to offers for fellow academy products Conor Gallagher and Trevoh Chalobah.

Indeed, it’s reckoned that there will be a “flurry of activity” in west London before the transfer window slams shut.

And Chelsea may get an up-close glimpse of Duran in action when they host Villa in the fourth-round of the FA Cup on Friday night.

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