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Jersey Swap Signals Duran’s Departure
Aston Villa’s pre-season activities in the USA have hinted at an imminent squad change. Amadou Onana, the club’s new £50 million acquisition, was seen donning the No.24 shirt, previously associated with Jhon Duran. This wardrobe switch suggests that the 20-year-old Colombian’s future lies away from Villa Park, as the club appears to be moving on without him.
Duran’s Future in Limbo After Copa America
Following his participation in the Copa America, Duran has extended his vacation, fueling speculation about his next move. The striker’s desire to leave Villa has been an open secret, with West Ham United expressing strong interest. Negotiations are underway, with the Hammers reportedly tabling a £30 million bid plus young talent Lewis Orford as they await Villa’s response.
Chelsea’s Interest Cools as Villa Plans Ahead
Despite being linked with Duran earlier in the transfer window, Chelsea seems to have backed off, leaving West Ham as the frontrunners. Villa’s decision to reassign Duran’s shirt number to Onana, who is a self-professed admirer of the late basketball icon Kobe Bryant, is a clear sign that the club is bracing for Duran’s exit.
Onana’s Shirt Dilemma Solved
Onana, who previously wore No.24 at Lille and switched to No.8 at Everton, found both his preferred numbers occupied upon his arrival at Aston Villa. With Youri Tielemans already owning the No.8 and Duran the No.24, Onana’s choice was limited. However, during the team’s first training session in Washington DC, Onana was spotted with the No.24, indicating that Villa is ready to part ways with Duran.
Transfer Market Heating Up
As the transfer saga unfolds, other Premier League movements are also catching attention. Arsenal’s Emile Smith Rowe is reportedly nearing a £34 million move to Fulham, while Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold remains committed to his club amid Real Madrid’s interest. Chelsea, on the other hand, is rumored to have placed a bid for Villarreal’s goalkeeper Filip Jorgensen. For all the latest transfer deals and gossip, the summer transfer window continues to deliver intriguing storylines.
