Aston Villa striker Jhon Duran has signed a new contract with the club until 2030.
The 20-year-old has been in strong form in the opening stages of the 2024-25 season, scoring six goals across all competitions, despite just one of his 10 appearances for Unai Emery’s side coming as a starter.
Duran has primarily been deployed as a second-half substitute for regular lone starting striker Ollie Watkins. Duran has frequently replaced Watkins, although the two played together in the closing stages of Sunday’s 0-0 home draw with Manchester United.
The Colombia international has scored Premier League goals against West Ham United, Leicester City, Everton and Wolverhampton Wanderers, while he also netted from long range in Villa’s 1-0 win at home to Bayern Munich in the Champions League.
Duran attracted interest from Chelsea and West Ham United during the summer and was investigated by Villa after appearing the cross his arms to make the ‘irons’ gesture relating to the latter club.
Duran joined Villa from Major League Soccer side Chicago Fire in January 2023 and played 37 times in the 2023-24 season, scoring eight goals. His previous deal was due to expire in 2028.
He made one appearance for Colombia at this summer’s Copa America as his side reached the final, in which they were defeated by Argentina. Duran’s only time on the pitch was a 13-minute cameo against Costa Rica in a group-stage victory.
Duran’s contract reward for remarkable turnaround
Analysis from Villa correspondent Jacob Tanswell
Duran’s new extension reflects a remarkable turnaround in feeling and relationship between the player, his representatives and Villa.
Team-mates and Duran himself were of the impression he would leave in the summer, with the Colombia striker wanting to push through a move, wanting to be a regular starter.
However, after resolution talks towards the end of the window — where Villa outlined his importance and Emery planned to increase his minutes, it marked the turning of the page. His importance and ability has been demonstrated this season but comes as little surprise to Villa, who believe he can become one of the world’s best forwards.
“If there is a club that really thinks Jhon Duran can become one of the top strikers in the world, then that one club is Aston Villa and that one manager is Unai Emery,” said Monchi, president of football operations in a wide-ranging interview. “There are no fewer than 40 clubs who want Duran — everyone wants him.”
(Joe Prior/Visionhaus via Getty Images)
Read the full article here