Aston Villa stance on striker signing revealed after Jhon Duran update
Aston Villa will only be able to bring in another striker if Jhon Duran is sold before the 30 August deadline, sources have told Football Insider.
Duran, 20, has attracted bids from Chelsea and West Ham so far in the off-season and has been close to joining both clubs at various stages.
Football Insider revealed on Monday (5 August) that Aston Villa remain open to offers for the wantaway striker, who has voiced his desire to leave the club and is reportedly under investigation for his actions on social media.
Villa would like to sign another striker to provide adequate backup for Ollie Watkins ahead of their Champions League campaign, but will only be able to do so if Duran departs.
Aston Villa can only sign new striker if Duran leaves
It is believed the Colombia international's exit is necessary from a Financial Fair Play standpoint following a close brush with the rules earlier this summer.
Football Insider revealed on Monday (5 August) that Aston Villa are in talks over a potential deal to sign Joao Felix from Atletico Madrid - and the Portugal international could feature up front for Unai Emery's side if needed.
Watkins, 28, hit 27 goals across all competitions last term and is the first name on the teamsheet for Emery's side.
Meanwhile, sources say Duran does not have a long-term future at Villa Park despite the collapse of moves from Chelsea and West Ham.
The former Chicago Fire star is under contract with the Midlands giants until June 2028.
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