Chelsea's pursuit of Aston Villa forward Jhon Duran has hit a roadblock, with the Blues hesitant to proceed with a deal, according to Metro. The Colombian international's impressive performances have caught the eye of Todd Boehly's side, but two key concerns are holding them back from completing the £40 million transfer.
Firstly, Chelsea have reservations about Duran's character, with reports suggesting the 20-year-old has a reputation for being a "maverick" off the pitch. This has raised concerns about his potential fit in the Blues' dressing room and whether he would be a disruptive influence. Chelsea's stringent standards and team ethos are well-documented, and the club is cautious about introducing a player who may not align with those values.
Secondly, Duran's wage demands have proved a significant stumbling block. Chelsea are unwilling to meet the forward's salary expectations, having already demonstrated this summer that they will not be held to ransom by demanding players. The Blues have a strict wage structure in place, and Duran's demands are deemed excessive, particularly given his relatively young age and limited experience in the Premier League.
With their pursuit of Duran on ice, Chelsea are now exploring alternative options to bolster their attack, including a potential move for Hoffenheim striker Maximilian Beier. The Blues are keen to strengthen their squad ahead of the new season, but will only do so if the terms are right for the club.