Colombian forward Jhon Duran has joined Fenerbahce on loan from Al-Nassr, just six months after his lucrative move to the Saudi Arabian club. The Turkish Süper Lig side confirmed the signing of the 21-year-old striker, expressing their hope that he will have a successful season with the team.

Duran's move to Al-Nassr from Aston Villa was finalized in January 2025 for a reported fee of £64 million. He made 13 appearances for the Saudi club, scoring 8 goals. Despite his contributions, Duran's time in Saudi Arabia was reportedly marked by personal challenges and "behind-the-scenes chaos" at Al-Nassr. Some reports indicated that Duran struggled to adjust to strict Saudi Arabian laws, particularly regarding cohabitation, which caused him to consider living in Bahrain and commuting to Riyadh for training.

Fenerbahce, managed by Jose Mourinho, has been actively pursuing Duran, with Mourinho viewing the young striker as a key addition to his squad. Duran is also reportedly eager to return to a more competitive European environment to rediscover his form. This move also gives him the chance to return to the Champions League.

Duran's departure from Al-Nassr reflects a broader trend of players leaving the Saudi Pro League after short stints, with Jordan Henderson being another high-profile example. Al-Nassr is reportedly undergoing a significant overhaul following a trophyless season, and Duran's exit may be the first of several changes.

Prior to his move to Al-Nassr, Duran had a promising stint with Aston Villa, where he scored 20 goals in 78 appearances. He joined the Premier League club in January 2023 from Chicago Fire for a reported £18 million. During his time with Aston Villa, Duran showcased his potential, scoring crucial goals in the Premier League and the Champions League. However, he struggled to consistently break into the starting lineup, often playing second fiddle to England international Ollie Watkins.

Unai Emery, Aston Villa's manager, acknowledged that the transfer to Al-Nassr was financially beneficial for the club. He also expressed his desire to reshape the attack, emphasizing the importance of "recovering talents".

With his loan move to Fenerbahce, Jhon Duran is now the most valuable player in the Süper Lig, with a market value of €35 million. His arrival is considered a major signing for Fenerbahce, with club president Ali Koç under pressure to deliver a league title after a series of near misses. Duran is the most valuable player to join Fenerbahçe in their history and the second-most valuable in Super Lig history, behind Victor Osmihen.