Arsenal is keeping an eye on Aston Villa’s Jhon Duran as an alternative to top target Viktor Gyökeres ahead of the January transfer window. According to Football Transfers, Arsenal is looking into Aston Villa striker Jhon Duran as a backup to their main target, Viktor Gyökeres. Despite considering Gyökeres, Victor Osimhen, and Benjamin Šeško, the Gunners did not sign a new striker during the summer transfer window.
According to Football Transfers, Gyökeres was Arsenal’s favorite pick this summer, but his €100 million (£83 million) price tag proved too much. The in-form forward has already had a major impact for Sporting CP, scoring 14 goals in just nine outings. Arsenal is investigating options, including Villa’s Duran, because his release clause will not be effective in January. The Colombian international was previously linked with a move to Chelsea, but the West London club was unable to match Villa’s £40 million asking price. Given Duran’s outstanding performance this season, where he has four goals in five Premier League appearances, Arsenal appears to be getting a good deal.
Arsenal has made significant progress in upgrading their roster over the last few seasons, even vying for the league title recently. While their defense has been strong, conceding only 29 goals last season—the fewest in the top five European leagues—there is an urgent need to strengthen their attacking alternatives. As Gary Lineker stated, “Arsenal are probably a center forward away from winning things.” Securing a prolific scorer like Duran may be the key to improving their title chances and competing effectively in European tournaments.
After a heartbreaking late equalizer against Manchester City, Arsenal will be looking to win again when they face Leicester City at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday, September 28.
