"As a young man, the head goes to other places" - Premier League star opens up on future amid links with Arsenal 

Aston Villa striker Jhon Duran has opened up about his future amid links to big clubs like Arsenal and Barcelona. The Colombia international is currently second choice behind Ollie Watkins in the number nine position at Villa Park.

However, the 20-year-old forward has clarified that he's happy at Aston Villa at the moment. Speaking in an interview with Sky Sports about potentially moving away, Duran said (via CaughtOffSide):

“Yes, I think there were rumors. As a young man, the head goes to other places.

“But there was always total support from Unai, from [president of football operations] Monchi, and above all from Damian [Vidagany, director of football operations]."

He added:

“I think that helps, in a way, the mind, and they… I don’t know, the start of the season was about my mind. Now it’s different.

“With experience, we’re going to do big things, and we’re working for that. Thanks to them, we’re here, and I’m happy here.”

It seems as though it will be extremely difficult for any interested club to acquire the services of Duran. He's contracted with his current employers till the summer of 2030, and it is believed that suitors would have to pay upwards of £75 million.

That being said, Duran has been brilliant in coming off the bench and finding the net this season. He's featured in 14 matches across competitions, scoring eight goals.

Arsenal could do with a traditional number nine. Kai Havertz, who isn't an out-and-out striker, leads the line at the Emirates, while Gabriel Jesus hasn't lived up to expectations.

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What Arsenal target Viktor Gyokeres said about his future in September

Viktor Gyokeres

Arsenal were linked with a number of strikers in the summer transfer window, including Sporting's Viktor Gyokeres. The Sweden international has been brilliant in the last year or so in front of goal.

This season, he's scored 20 goals and bagged four assists in 16 matches across competitions. Speaking about his future to Sport Bladet in September, Gyokeres said (via Football London):

"I enjoy myself very much in Sporting and can't complain about anything, so it's absolutely no problem for me to stay. Of course, you aim to test other leagues and a higher level, but I have no stress."

The 26-year-old certainly won't be a cheap purchase in the near future, given he's currently contracted till 2028. It is believed that the striker has a release clause worth €100 million on his contract.