“Villa Faces Key Decision as Duran Weighs West Ham Move Amidst Watkins’ Dominance”
Don Goodman completely understands why striker Jhon Duran, feeling frustrated, would want to leave Aston Villa this summer.
Duran only made three Premier League starts last season because first-choice centre-forward Ollie Watkins was in excellent form.
Despite this, the Colombia international made an impact, scoring five goals in 23 appearances, mostly as a substitute.
West Ham has submitted a £35 million bid for Duran, and Goodman believes the player would welcome the move.
“From Jhon Duran’s perspective, I completely understand – he wants more playing time,” he told Villa News.
“He won’t get that at Villa due to Ollie Watkins’ outstanding performance, so he’ll want the move. If he stays, he’ll likely have a similar season to the last, which explains his frustration.”
Aston Villa now faces a significant decision regarding Duran’s transfer. Watkins demonstrated his talent, well-known to Villa fans, by scoring a late winner for England against the Netherlands this week.
There’s no question that Ollie Watkins will remain Aston Villa’s primary striker next season as Unai Emery prepares his team for their first Champions League campaign.
Duran can still contribute as a substitute, a replacement for Watkins in some matches, or even playing alongside him if Villa need a goal.
However, only Duran knows how content he will be with this role. As Goodman points out, it’s understandable why he might feel frustrated.
On one hand, given his age—he won’t turn 21 until December—it might be wise for him to continue developing at Villa Park.
On the other hand, he has the opportunity to lead the attack for an ambitious Premier League club like West Ham, who are in need of a determined goalscorer.
Ultimately, Villa will decide, and if they find the £35 million bid from West Ham acceptable, it might be sensible to take the money and reinvest it in the squad.