'Different from the rest' - Arsenal told to sign 'real deal' £14m-rated Premier League striker

Arsenal have been advised by former Manchester United attacker Dwight Yorke to sign Aston Villa star Jhon Duran. The Gunners were expected to sign a new striker in the recently passed summer transfer window but, despite a new goalkeeper, defender, midfielder and winger, no striker was signed.

Instead, Mikel Arteta has opted to stick with Kai Havertz, Gabriel Jesus, Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard as his attacking options. Germany international Havertz has performed exceptionally well for the Gunners so far this season, most recently scoring the opening goal in the club’s 2-0 win over Paris Saint-Germain, but the latest reports suggest Arteta could still keep his options open.

Former Manchester United striker Yorke has spoken via the Birmingham Mail on his belief that Arsenal still need a natural number nine, and has recommended Villa’s Duran.

“Jhon Duran, he looks a real handful and a bit different from the rest”, the footballer-turned pundit said. “He’s got that good presence about him. I would take that chance on him, he looks like the real deal. What I look for is people who are hungry, and he’s got that. In terms of the big boys, Arsenal haven’t got an outstanding number 9.”

Colombia international Duran joined the Villans in 2023 from MLS side Chicago Fire in a reported deal worth £14.75 million, with potential of a further £3m in add-ons.

The 20-year-old has since been in exceptional form for Unai Emery’s team and this campaign he has already scored four league goals and one in the Carabao Cup. He had been linked with a move away from Villa Park throughout the summer, but nothing materialised.

While the Colombian does not often have a starting spot under Emery due to the presence of Ollie Watkins - another former reported Arsenal target - the attacker consistently impressed when coming off the bench.

Duran will likely be next in action when Aston Villa welcome Bayern Munich in their second UEFA Champions League game this evening, Wednesday 2 October. Following their 2-0 win over PSG last night, Arsenal will next take to the field on Saturday when they host Southampton in the Premier League.