- 7 hours ago
PSG ready to get creative to seal €100m Duran transfer from Aston Villa
Paris Saint-Germain are still holding out on signing Jhon Duran this month despite Aston Villa insisting they will not sell their hot-shot striker for less than €100 million.
Duran has long-been a target for clubs after his impressive goals-per-minute ratio, having struggled to firmly displace Ollie Watkins as Villa’s starting striker.
The Colombian forward has scored 12 times in all competitions this season despite only starting seven matches, culminating in a goal every 81.5 minutes.
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Duran was strongly linked with an exit during the summer but eventually extended his contract with Villa, although the 21-year-old is still keen to leave despite his new deal.
Villa would only be open to selling Duran for a massive fee and if they can also secure a replacement, with Unai Emery’s side in talks to sign Dortmund forward Donyell Malen.
Multiple reports in France have claimed that PSG could test Villa’s resolve and may look to subsidise any deal by sending Randal Kolo Muani or Marco Asensio the other way.
Will Villa cash in on Duran?
Duran’s renewal in October saw his salary significantly increase while also tying the youngster to Villa until 2030, although Emery has still largely preferred to start Watkins up top.
Villa appreciate Duran’s frustration over his limited game time and would reluctantly cash in on their prolific star but, having demanded around €50m for him in the summer, their asking price is now thought to have doubled.
However, Villa have always proven open to trading players for the right amount as they continue to push the limits of PSR and the Premier League outfit are still hoping to make multiple signings this winter.
Along with Malen, Villa have been linked with a move for Celta Vigo defender Oscar Mingueza, who has a €20m release clause in his contract.
But Villa may be required to sell before they can buy, having already sold Jaden Philogene to Ipswich for more than €20m this week, meaning they could be willing to negotiate with PSG for Duran.