UNAI EMERY is convinced he can turn Jhon Duran into one of the world's best strikers.
The claim has been made by Aston Villa's two recruitment chiefs who said they rebuffed 40 offers for the 20-year-old this summer.
As last season wore on, the Colombian international became increasingly frustrated by a lack of opportunity.
Ollie Watkins' sparkling form ensured the powerful forward was left kicking his heels on Villa's bench. But Emery (below) has no intention of allowing the youngster, who Villa signed for £15million from Chicago Fire in January last year, to leave.
Instead he wants to nurture and grow his talent. The club's president of football operations, Monchi, explained why, saying: "Unai is very confident with Jhon Duran. Very confident.
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