Manchester United's search for attacking reinforcements has hit a setback with Aston Villa forward Jhon Durán set to sign a new contract. The 22-year-old Colombian striker had been linked with a move to Old Trafford but is now expected to commit his future to Villa Park.
Villa manager Unai Emery confirmed the club's intention to keep the player. "We are very happy with Jhon and we are working on a new deal for him," Emery told reporters. The manager's statement effectively ends United's interest in the player for this transfer window.
United's need for additional firepower is clear as they prepare for a key derby. They sit 11th in the Premier League with four points from three games and face leaders Manchester City next. Their top scorer this season is Bruno Fernandes with three goals, but the team's recent form has been inconsistent, with two wins, one draw and two losses in their last five matches.
Durán, who joined Villa from Chicago Fire in 2023, has developed into a key squad player under Emery. His potential new deal would see him remain a Villan for the foreseeable future, removing a reported target from United's list. The club's recruitment team will now have to look elsewhere to bolster their forward line.
Erik ten Hag's side showed their attacking capability in a recent 4-0 friendly win over Sabah FA, with goals from Matheus Cunha, Fernandes, Benjamin Šeško and Lisandro Martínez. However, league results have been mixed, including a 2-2 draw at Everton where Bryan Mbeumo and Šeško found the net. The immediate focus shifts to the Manchester derby at Old Trafford on Sunday, 13 September.
