Spanish giants Real Madrid have reportedly joined the competitive race for signature Aston Villa striker Jhon Duran.
The Colombia international was available for around £40million just six months ago – a valuation which prompted West Ham United to stop their pursuit. However, after a flurry of prolific form at the start of the campaign, Duran has emerged as one of the most sought-after strikers anywhere on the continent.
West Ham rekindled their interest in the 21-year-old this month, putting on the table a a sensational offer of £57m which was quickly rejected by Villa, who value their striker at around £80m. Cristiano Ronaldo’s Saudi Professional League Al Nassr elbowed their way into negotiations, although they have not yet made an offer for number nine.
Paris Saint-Germain are also thought to be interested, and now Madrid have entered the process according to the French publication Foot Market.
The reigning European and Spanish champions are reportedly considering taking “concrete action” as early as this month, although it remains to be seen whether they will be willing to accept Villa’s hefty price tag.
Madrid they already boast one of the most formidable front lines in world football. As Carlo Ancelotti pointed out this week: “Sa [Kylian] Mbappe, Vini Jr, Rodrygo and [Jude] Bellingham, we’re not going to have a problem scoring goals.”
None of the mentioned players is considered a classic centre-forward in the form of Duran. After the departures of Karim Benzema and Joselu in recent years, the closest Madrid have in that role is Brazilian teenager Endrick. Despite his playing time issues, the Spanish side are not ready to loan him out this month, according to reports Fabrizio Romano.
PSG was already active in January, catching up Napoli’s Khvicha Kvaratskhelia in £59m deal as they offload Randal Kolo Muani on loan to Juventus. Luis Enrique has not been regularly linked with a natural centre-forward but this week insisted he is open to the possibility.
Despite a number of European giants eyeing him, Duran reportedly favors a move to Al Nassr, according to Foot Market.
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