Jhon Duran set for blockbuster Saudi Arabia transfer

Aston Villa striker Jhon Duran is set to undergo a medical ahead of a huge transfer to Saudi Arabian side Al Nassr, it has emerged.

21-year-old Duran inked a new long-term contract with Villa earlier this season after a summer of significant interest in his services, but he has found Premier League starts hard to come by as Unai Emery has instead kept his faith in Ollie Watkins.

West Ham United failed with a £57m bid for Duran this month before Al Nassr emerged as suitors, and The Athletic have now revealed that the Saudi side have struck a deal over a transfer which will be worth an initial €77m (£64.5m) plus add-ons.

"I don't know exactly until everything is done if Jhon Duran is leaving but if he is leaving it is good news for us because it means they are paying good money," Emery told the media after Wednesday's 4-2 win over Celtic.

"Because we have developed one young player in two years to get this offer. It is not only for the club, it is the club, the players and team, those circumstances can be positive. Club, the player and the team."

Meanwhile, Villa also find themselves facing a battle to hold on to Watkins after Arsenal launched an ambitious £60m move for the England international on Wednesday.

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