Aston Villa hold concrete interest in “world-class” £50m Duran replacement

Aston Villa Eyeing "World-Class" Striker to Replace Duran, Faces Competition from Arsenal

Aston Villa are reportedly looking to sign a "world-class" striker this summer to replace Jhon Duran, with a potential deal costing around £50 million. However, they could face competition from Arsenal, according to a recent report.

Aston Villa Seeking Striker to Fill Duran Void

Duran moved to Al-Nassr for £65 million in the January transfer window, and the 21-year-old has made a strong start in Saudi Arabia, scoring four goals in four league games. While the transfer has helped ease some of Villa’s financial concerns, his departure has left manager Unai Emery with limited options in attack.

The club is now actively assessing potential replacements ahead of the summer transfer window. Among the targets are Atalanta’s Mateo Retegui, who has been in prolific form in Serie A this season, and FC Porto’s Samu Omorodion Aghehowa, who has outscored Villa’s current striker Ollie Watkins.

Vlahovic Emerges as Key Target

According to TEAMtalk, Aston Villa are also seriously interested in signing Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic. The 24-year-old is increasingly likely to leave Juventus at the end of the season, as contract renewal talks have stalled. This has opened the door for potential suitors, with Arsenal also in the mix due to Mikel Arteta’s high regard for the Serbian international.

Villa are yet to make formal enquiries for Vlahovic, but it is believed that a £50 million bid could be enough to secure his signature. The striker would be brought in as a direct replacement for Duran, offering Villa an experienced and proven option in attack.

Vlahovic’s Potential Impact

While Ollie Watkins remains Villa’s first-choice striker, Duran’s departure has left a void, particularly given his impact as a substitute. Vlahovic could be an ideal replacement, boasting significant experience at the top level. He has scored six goals in 16 Champions League appearances and has an impressive record of 86 goals and 14 assists in 193 Serie A matches, including nine goals this season.

Serie A journalist Siavoush Fallahi has previously described Vlahovic as “world-class,” and his goal-scoring pedigree suggests he could challenge Watkins for the starting spot. However, Atalanta’s Mateo Retegui could be an even more attractive option, as he has outscored Vlahovic this season with 21 Serie A goals.

Upcoming Fixtures for Aston Villa

As Aston Villa continue to compete on multiple fronts, addressing their attacking options will be crucial for the remainder of the season and beyond. Whether they secure Vlahovic or pursue other targets, the club is clearly focused on strengthening their squad for the future.