Aston Villa respond to West Ham’s January offer for Chelsea & AC Milan target

Chelsea and AC Milan face competition from West Ham for striker Jhon Durán after having an offer rejected by Aston Villa, according to reports.

The 20-year-old, who has made 23 appearances for Aston Villa this season – scoring four goals and registering one assists – has attracted interest from across Europe.

Internal discussions took place within Chelsea as they ponder over a move for a new striker this month following the decision to listen to offers for Armando Broja.

AC Milan have also been linked with Durán, who has recently commented on his future at Villa Park amid growing interest.

He told Win Sports TV earlier this month: “I have my head in Aston Villa. I am not aware of interest (from) AC Milan or Chelsea.

“They are giant clubs and it would be a pleasure, but I have no knowledge of anything. As a child you dream of playing there.”

However, West Ham, who are also in the market for a new forward, have had their first attempt rejected by Unai Emery’s side, according to Jacob Steinberg of The Guardian.

A loan offer with an option to buy this summer has been refused. Villa are reportedly unwilling to let Duran leave unless they sign a replacement. They hold an interest in Middlesbrough’s Morgan Rogers.

Duran, who was signed by Villa in January 2023 from Chicago Fire in a deal worth up to £18 million, is eager for more starting minutes due to having to remain patient behind first-choice forward Ollie Watkins.