Breaking: Jhon Duran set for medical as bid accepted following Arsenal and West Ham talks

Jhon Duran has been scheduled to undergo a medical in London on Thursday following a breakthrough in talks between Aston Villa and Al-Nassr.

A groundbreaking report from The Athletic’s David Ornstein suggests a full agreement is in place for Duran to exit Villa for the Saudi Pro League, where he will join up with Cristiano Ronaldo.

Al-Nassr have agreed to pay €77 million (£64.5 million) plus add-ons and a five and a half year contract is already in place for Duran, who has given the green light for the move. Al-Nassr are set to cancel their proposed swoop for Bayer Leverkusen forward Victor Boniface as a result.

It’s a substantial update regarding Duran’s future following an alleged £57 million bid from West Ham United and an official enquiry from Arsenal. It was understood as recently as the weekend that Villa were not interested in even entertaining the thought of Duran departing this winter but football moves quickly and money certainly talks.

The timing is unprecedented with Duran sat on the bench for Villa’s ongoing Champions League tie with Celtic at the moment of publication.

Ollie Watkins future decided by Jhon Duran decision

Duran’s imminent exit almost certainly confirms that Arsenal have no chance of signing Ollie Watkins. The Gunners saw a £60 million bid rejected on Monday and an improved offer was being prepared.

Watkins, signed from Brentford for £28 million in September 2020, has been a tremendous servant for Villa so far. The England international has scored an impressive 80 goals and made 34 assists in 200 games across all competitions for the Villans. The 29-year-old’s ability to thrive in the channels but hold up play when required make him a vital player.