Aston Villa transfer news: Former Chelsea target viewed as ideal Jhon Duran replacement?

Last year, Chelsea made a sustained effort to try to sign the youngster from Atletico Madrid before running into issues over the deal.

Rather than retain the services of the 20-year-old, Atletico sold Omorodion to Porto in a complex arrangement that initially saw him leave for €15m with the Portuguese outfit securing 50% of his sports rights.

Although Porto face paying more money as the years pass by, it has proven to be an inspired piece of business with Omorodion having contributed 18 goals from his 26 appearances in Primeira Liga and the Europa League.

While there is the potential for a return to Spain at some stage, Omorodion appears to have growing interest from the Premier League.

Villa ready to push for Omorodion deal?

According to AS, Villa have already identified Omorodion as their primary target for the summer.

The report highlights that Unai Emery will be in the market for a replacement for Jhon Duran, who joined Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr in the winter window.

Marcus Rashford and Donyell Malen are versatile attackers that have been acquired at the same trading point and will provide competition for Ollie Watkins.

Nevertheless, it appears that Emery is eager for club officials to push ahead with an approach for Omorodion, anticipating that the Spanish starlet will only improve.

All parties, as per the report, could be in favour of a transfer if Villa can successfully agree a fee with Porto, that likely to be a complicated negotiation with Atletico also involved.

Could Chelsea return for Omorodion?

Chelsea will be in the market for a new number nine prior to 2025-26 courtesy of Christopher Nkunku failing to provide suitable backup to Nicolas Jackson.

Teenager Marc Guiu - like Jackson - is currently sidelined through injury, and Nkunku's ineffective performances during a double header with Brighton & Hove Albion have highlighted the need for a more physically-imposing figure.

However, it remains to be seen whether Omorodion would consider a move to Stamford Bridge on the back of being rejected at the last moment in 2024.

What may work in Chelsea's favour is Watkins being the standout first choice at Villa, as opposed to Jackson's stock arguably decreasing over the past two months.

Written by

Darren Plant