In a recent report, AS mentioned that Barcelona are set to rival Arsenal for Aston Villa forward Jhon Duran. It has been claimed that the Catalan club are eyeing a move to recruit the Colombian striker next year.
Duran’s Impressive Form In English Football This Season
Duran has served as a super substitute for the West Midlands club recently as he has managed to catch the eye with his performances off their bench. The 20-year-old has netted seven goals in 12 matches for Aston Villa this season in all competitions.
The Colombian talent has made all of his appearances off the bench which explains why he is averaging 1.4 shots, 0.1 key passes and 0.3 dribbles per game in the Premier League. However, he needs to find a way to improve his ball distribution in the opposition half, as evidenced by his pass completion rate of 71.7% in the top tier of English football (stats via whoscored).
His current contract at the Midlands club will run out in the summer of 2030. Hence, the Catalan club would have to make a convincing offer if they want to get a deal done for Duran on the cheap next year.
Should Barcelona Boss Hansi Flick Move In For Duran?
Duran excels at finding some space for himself to get some strikes at goal. He is a good finisher in the final third and can create the odd chance for his teammates when he is playing well on the field. The Colombia international can make some promising runs with the ball as well in the opponent’s half. However, he has to find to improve his link-up play in the final third.
Duran would no doubt enhance the quality of Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick’s attack. He has what it takes to compete for a regular first-team spot at the Nou Camp in the future. Furthermore, the Colombian sensation could prove to be an ideal successor to Robert Lewandowski at the Catalan club in the long run.
At 20, Duran has the potential to be a future star in European football. Thus, Flick would be wise to move in for him in the January transfer window or at the end of this campaign. However, he might need some time to settle into life in Spain.
