Aston Villa's promising forward Jhon Duran is set to make a landmark move to Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr, with a medical examination scheduled for Thursday in London. The Colombian international's transfer has been agreed upon in principle for a substantial fee of €77million (£64.5m), with additional performance-based add-ons.
The 21-year-old striker, who recently committed his future to Villa with a contract extension until 2030 in October, is expected to sign a five-and-half-year contract with Al Nassr. This development comes after West Ham United's unsuccessful pursuit of Duran, including a rejected bid of £57million earlier this month.
Duran's impact at Villa Park has been notable since his arrival from Chicago Fire in January 2023 for a fee that could rise to £17.75m. Despite limited starting opportunities, he has demonstrated impressive efficiency, scoring 12 goals in 29 appearances this season, with only seven starts. His overall record at the Premier League club stands at 20 goals in 78 games.
The transfer will have significant implications for both clubs. For Al Nassr, currently fourth in the Saudi Pro League and eight points behind leaders Al Hilal and second-placed Al Ittihad, Duran will join an impressive roster that includes global stars like Cristiano Ronaldo, Sadio Mane, and Aymeric Laporte under manager Stefano Pioli. The move also signals the end of their interest in Bayer Leverkusen striker Victor Boniface.
Meanwhile, Aston Villa has demonstrated their resolve in retaining key players by swiftly rejecting Arsenal's recent approach for England international Ollie Watkins, whom they consider an integral part of their future plans. The approach, made on Monday, was promptly dismissed by the club.
