Chelsea are interested in signing Aston Villa striker Jhon Duran, reports claim.

The Colombian forward’s agent has confirmed that Chelsea’s interest has been consistent, regardless of potential managerial changes at the club.

Chelsea are reportedly conducting background checks on the transfer target. This move is part of their meticulous process to ensure the player fits not only in terms of skill but also character and professionalism.

According to the Daily Telegraph, Duran has a reputation for being something of an ‘unusual character’, and Chelsea  want to be sure he has the right personality traits to flourish under new manager Enzo Maresca.

Villa, however, insist he is not deserving of a reputation as a ‘bad lad’ with the player never having missed a day of training.

Duran joined Villa last summer from Chicago Fire for a modest fee in the region of £15million.

Villa now rate the 20-year-old around £40million. The Colombian showed flashes of potential during his maiden season in England but was largely forced to play second fiddle to their main striker Ollie Watkins.