Soccer news: Jhon Durán leaves Al-Nassr for Fenerbahçe
21-year-old Colombian striker Jhon Durán has rejoined European football, sealing a one-year loan from Al‑Nassr to Turkish giants Fenerbahçe — a deal struck on July 6.
Durán had an impressive season in Saudi Arabia, scoring 12 goals from 18 appearances, reigniting his career after just six months away from England.
Here, Sports News Blitz writer Harrison Pearce looks at the reasons why Jhon Durán is a marquee addition to José Mourinho’s Fenerbahçe.
Financial details and salary
Fenerbahçe is set to cover Durán’s entire reported £300,000+ per week salary — equating to over €10million net last season.
Previously, he had signed a lucrative tax-free deal at Al‑Nassr worth £16.7million per year.
Career journey: From Aston Villa to Istanbul
The striker broke through in the early 2024/25 season with Aston Villa, netting 12 goals in 29 games, including a Champions League winner against Bayern Munich.
Durán left Villa for Al-Nassr in January of this year for approximately €77–85million, striking 12 goals in 18 appearances, helping the team to a third-place finish and an AFC Champions League semi-final.
However, he then had to leave the club due to the foreign-player cap policy and internal friction.
Now, Durán joins José Mourinho at Fenerbahçe, expected to spearhead their title charge as they aim to dethrone Galatasaray.
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Why now?
The Saudi Pro League caps the number of foreign players per team over the age of 21 at eight.
Reports also suggest Durán faced internal “bust-ups” at Al‑Nassr and struggled to integrate into the team under manager Stefano Pioli.
With Premier League clubs having previously been interested, his high-wage demands made Turkey a more realistic destination.
What to expect in Istanbul
Durán brings physicality, pace, and finishing to a Fenerbahçe side aiming to end a trophy drought and go deeper in Europe.
Now valued at around €35million, he’s the Süper Lig’s most expensive asset.
Fenerbahçe finished second last season — they will expect Durán to fire them to the top of the table and to help them challenge in Europe.
Transfer summary
Durán’s move is more than a loan — it’s a statement.
One that says: “I belong in Europe.”
For Fenerbahçe, he’s a marquee addition — for Al‑Nassr, a strategic squad move, and for Durán, it’s a chance to fulfill the promise he showed in England.
Istanbul’s spotlight awaits.
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