Arsenal pull plug on signing Aston Villa star due to 'attitude problem' - Insider

Arsenal have been put off of a move for Jhon Duran amid concerns about his attitude, according to a former Aston Villa scout.

Mick Brown, who remains very well-connected at Villa Park and also spent time at Tottenham and Man United, exclusively told Football Insider that the striker was on Arsenal’s list of names as they target a new centre-forward.

Despite the 20-year-old having signed a new six-year deal with Villa to extend his stay until 2030, Arsenal have been among the clubs to show an interest in a potential transfer.

However, behind-the-scenes issues involving the player in the past raised red flags for the Gunners’ recruitment team and they are now assessing other options.

Mikel Arteta is keen to ensure he recruits the right characters into his Arsenal side, having cleared the club of players he deemed to be negative influences since his arrival.

Brown previously told Football Insider that there were concerns among backroom staff at Villa that Duran is a “difficult character” which led to speculation about his future.

Arsenal concerned about Jhon Duran after new transfer twist

Unai Emery’s influence and guidance are said to have played a huge part in his development at Villa and have led to fewer concerns at the club about his attitude, Brown told Football Insider.

Now, the former senior scout who has a wealth of experience in player recruitment at the top level has insisted that the initial concerns have lingered at potentially interested clubs, with Arsenal reconsidering their interest as a result.

“I know at Aston Villa they thought he was a bit of a difficult character,” he told Football Insider.

“Those concerns at Villa seem to have been brushed under the carpet because he’s had a fantastic season and committed to a big new deal.

“And, as far as I’m told, Arsenal have been looking for a new striker and he has been a name on their list.

“But there are lingering doubts about that attitude which have put them off.

“Arteta wants to make sure he only brings in the right characters who will fit into his squad.

“Even if those concerns about Duran have been eased at Villa, there is a feeling at Arsenal that he may not be the right fit, despite his performances.”

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