Aston Villa striker Jhon Duran completed a move to Saudi Pro League side Al Nassr on Friday in a deal reportedly worth £64 million ($79 million).
Despite making several impactful substitute appearances, Duran struggled to secure a regular starting spot at Villa. The 21-year-old Colombian made a memorable contribution earlier this season, scoring Villa’s decisive goal in their Champions League victory over Bayern Munich.
In a statement, Aston Villa confirmed the transfer: “Aston Villa can confirm that Jhon Duran has joined Al-Nassr for an undisclosed fee. The striker departs having scored 12 goals for Villa this season, including the winner against Bayern Munich in the Champions League. Everyone at Aston Villa would like to wish Jhon all the best in the next step of his professional career.”
Duran will now join stars Cristiano Ronaldo and Sadio Mane in Al Nassr’s attacking lineup after completing his move on Saudi Arabia’s transfer deadline day.
This transfer marks Villa’s second-largest sale, following the £100 million deal that saw Jack Grealish move to Manchester City. Duran had joined Villa from Chicago Fire for £18 million in January 2023. Over his 78 appearances for the club, he netted 20 goals, although he made just seven Premier League starts.
With Duran’s departure, Villa now appears poised to retain England striker Ollie Watkins, who had been the subject of a reported £60 million bid from Arsenal. Villa manager Unai Emery confirmed earlier on Friday that Watkins had expressed his desire to remain at the club.
AFP