In a recent report, journalists Danny Rust and Dean Jones mentioned that Newcastle United are locked in a three-way battle for Aston Villa striker Jhon Duran. It has been claimed that the Magpies would have to rival Chelsea and AC Milan in the race to land the Colombian talent next year.
Duran’s Impressive Form At Villa Park This Season
Duran has made a brilliant start to this campaign as he has put in a series of productive displays for the West Midlands club in the final third. The Colombia international has banged in five goals in seven matches for Aston Villa this season in all competitions.
The 20-year-old has made all of his appearances off the bench which explains why he is only averaging 2.0 shots and 0.2 dribbles per 90 minutes in the Premier League. He has to find a way to improve his link-up play up top, as evidenced by his pass completion rate of 66.7% in the top tier of English football (stats via whoscored).
His current contract at Aston Villa will expire in the summer of 2028 which could make it tough for the Magpies to sign him on the cheap next year.
Will Duran Be A Decent Fit For Newcastle United Boss Eddie Howe?
Duran is proficient at finding a yard of space for himself to get a few strikes in at goal. He can create the odd chance for his teammates but needs to work on improving his link-up play in the opponent’s half.
The Colombian talent is usually quite clever with his movements in and around the opposition penalty box. However, he has to find a way to earn more first-team starts if he wants to make the most out of his playing career.
Duran would undeniably enhance the quality of Newcastle boss Eddie Howe’s frontline. He has what it takes to offer some healthy competition for Alexander Isak at the Tyneside club in the coming seasons.
At 20, Duran has the potential to be a world-class player in his position someday. Hence, he would be a great fit for Newcastle‘s needs in the long run. All in all, the Magpies would be wise to get a deal done for him soon.
