Colombian striker Jhon Durán is on the brink of completing a blockbuster transfer from Aston Villa to Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr in a deal worth €77 million including add-ons. The 21-year-old is currently in London undergoing medical tests with his agent and a Saudi delegation before finalizing the move.
Once all contracts between Al Nassr and Aston Villa are verified, Durán is expected to fly to Saudi Arabia to officially join his new club, where he will play alongside Cristiano Ronaldo in the Saudi Pro League.
Aston Villa’s Surprise Sale
Durán, who joined Villa in January 2023, was regarded as a promising talent and recently signed a contract extension until 2030. However, Villa saw Al Nassr’s offer as too good to refuse. The club had already turned down a £57 million bid from West Ham, indicating their high valuation of the player.
Villa manager Unai Emery addressed the transfer speculation, stating:
“If he is leaving, it is because it is a good deal for us. Because we have developed a young player in two years. It is not only club, it [has to work for] club, player, and team.”
Al Nassr Strengthens Attack
Al Nassr had also been in talks to sign Bayer Leverkusen’s Victor Boniface, but ultimately prioritized Durán, who has impressed with his seven goals in 20 Premier League appearances this season.
Durán’s signing adds firepower to an Al Nassr squad that already boasts Cristiano Ronaldo, Sadio Mané, and Anderson Talisca, further solidifying the club’s ambitions of dominating the Saudi Pro League and competing in international tournaments.
Saudi Pro League’s Growing Influence
This transfer highlights the increasing financial power of Saudi clubs, as they continue to attract top talent from Europe’s elite leagues. Al Nassr’s ability to outbid clubs like Paris Saint-Germain and West Ham demonstrates the Saudi Pro League’s rising status in global football.
Durán’s move is expected to be finalized in the coming days, with his official unveiling in Riyadh likely to take place later this week.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
