Why Manchester United should be excited by reported target Jhon Duran

Add as preferred source on Google

Manchester United’s options to replace Cristiano Ronaldo in the January transfer window may be limited.

The Athletic reports: “Signing a replacement is not on the agenda unless a low-cost emergency solution can be found.”

It is particularly intriguing then to see United linked with a Chicharito-esque bargain from Major League Soccer, in Chicago Fire wonderkid Jhon Duran.

The Sun report Manchester United are paying close attention to Duran and have been in contact with his representatives.

Duran would reportedly cost just £10 million, a bargain the club should consider, amid regret at still not taking the plunge on Moises Caicedo in January 2021.

Jhon Duran is a player to be excited about

Jhon Duran is a player Manchester United are right to be excited about. The 18-year-old has scored eight MLS goals this past season, also providing three assists.

Duran has already made his Colombia debut, replacing former Manchester United forward Radamel Falcao as a substitute earlier this year.

This international call will aid Duran’s cause to be granted a work permit if United make a move, and he has said he wants to emulate Falcao’s successful career.

He told Archy Sport: “This is something very beautiful and very emotional for me and my family. Falcao is one of the best references in that position.”

Duran is highly regarded, with his Chicago Fire manager Ezra Hendrickson telling the club website earlier this season that opponents are already finding it tough to cope with him.

He said: “Jhon, he is a player that, once he gets it all together, can be really, really special. He has all the tools.

“The ceiling is very, very high. He’s a very tough guy to handle for defenders in this league.

A player profile from Goal.com describe Duran as ‘a 6’1 mountain of a teenager’, adding: ‘Duran seems to have everything you would look for in a modern No. 9.’.

The young striker is under contract at Chicago Fire until 2024, and the club will struggle to resist offers from the Premier League.

Liverpool are also interested, but considering Manchester United’s more pressing need for a striker, there could be a stronger push from Old Trafford to seal the deal.