Chelsea might be forced into imminent action if they wish to land Aston Villa striker Jhon Duran, amid reports West Ham have held lengthy talks with the Colombian.
The Blues are backed to invest further in centre-forward options following the arrival of 19-year-old Marc Guiu from Barcelona. Duran has been linked with Chelsea for a number of months amid their policy of buying young.
The attacker, who does not turn 21 until December, recorded a modest return of eight goals in 37 outings last season, of which only 10 were starts. But speculation suggests that Chelsea see potential in Duran and might be willing to table an offer, although this may now be muddied by West Ham’s reported interest.
football.london understands the club – very much keen to land a forward – are unwilling to pay over the odds for any striker this window and will not be pressed into panic-buying as deadline day draws closer.
This suggests Enzo Maresca would be able to do little if West Ham offer above what Chelsea are prepared to dish out for Duran. Sky Sports reports the Hammers are suggesting a part-swap deal using academy talent Lewis Orford as bait for Villa to agree a deal.
Central midfielder Orford, 18, is yet to make his senior debut although made the West Ham first-team bench on 10 occasions last season. Villa have reportedly been admirers of the teenager for a while.
