Ex Villa star ‘Has been offered’ to Champions League club, just months after Villa sold him

Jhon Durán Linked With Surprise Exit From Al-Nassr After Just Six Months, With Fenerbahce Emerging as Possible Destination

 

Aston Villa made headlines during the winter transfer window when they sold Colombian striker Jhon Durán to Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr in a high-profile, big-money move. The deal was notable not only for the fee involved but also because Villa chose not to bring in a like-for-like replacement for the promising young forward. Instead, the club bolstered its attacking options by bringing in Marcus Rashford and Marco Asensio on loan deals, shifting its strategy rather than directly replacing Durán.

 

Durán, regarded as a rising star during his time at Villa Park, had shown considerable potential and was seen as one of the club’s brightest young prospects. His departure was a significant loss for the Midlands club, especially considering his contributions since arriving from Major League Soccer side Chicago Fire in 2023. The then 21-year-old had also attracted interest from Premier League rivals, including West Ham United, who pursued him last summer. However, Villa refused to budge on their valuation, and he remained at the club until his eventual switch to Saudi Arabia.

 

Now, just six months into his stint in the Middle East, fresh reports suggest that Durán may already be on the verge of moving again. Multiple sources have indicated that the Colombian striker is unsettled at Al-Nassr, sparking speculation that he could be set to leave the Saudi Pro League in the upcoming summer transfer window.

 

A loan move is being strongly considered, and one potential new destination has emerged: Turkish giants Fenerbahce. According to Turkish broadcaster A Spor, via Fotomac, Durán has been offered to Fenerbahce as a possible acquisition. The Istanbul-based club, now managed by the legendary Jose Mourinho, is reportedly evaluating the financial implications of bringing the striker to Turkey.

 

Fenerbahce endured a disappointing end to their domestic campaign, falling short in the race for the Turkish Super Lig title. With arch-rivals Galatasaray already making waves in the transfer market — notably by reportedly agreeing a deal for German winger Leroy Sané — pressure is mounting on Mourinho to make a marquee signing of his own. Adding Durán to the squad could be a significant response, providing both a boost in quality and a statement of intent.

 

The club is also preparing for the UEFA Champions League qualifiers this summer, and bolstering the attack is a priority as they look to secure a spot in the group stages. Durán, who has European experience — including a goal for Aston Villa against Bayern Munich in the Champions League — would add valuable depth and quality to Fenerbahce’s forward line.

 

As the summer transfer window approaches, Durán’s future remains uncertain. What is clear, however, is that despite his brief stay in Saudi Arabia, interest in the young striker remains high, and a move to a European club like Fenerbahce could offer him the stability and playing time he reportedly desires.