Chelsea planning surprise swoop for Aston Villa striker

Aston Villa striker Jhon Duran has emerged as a surprise target for Chelsea before the winter transfer deadline, according to The Telegraph.

The Blues currently have Nicolas Jackson, Armando Broja and Christopher Nkunku, who are capable of leading the line under Mauricio Pochettino.

Jackson has been frustrating up front with only eight goals. Three of those came against Spurs, who were already down to nine men in the derby.

Broja, on the other hand, has yet to find his feet with the Blues while Nkunku has spent most of his early Blues career on the sidelines with injuries.

As a result, the Blues are looking for a new centre-forward before the winter transfer deadline and it is claimed that they are keen on landing Duran.

The Colombian has been a fringe player since his move to the Villans from Chicago Fire but Villa are unlikely to let him go unless they receive a premium fee.

He is currently the immediate back-up option in the squad, suppose Ollie Watkins is ruled out due to suspension or a potential injury.