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 lining up a shock move for Aston Villa striker Jhon DuranReuters

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

But the Telegraph 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.

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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