Jhon Duran nears loan move to Benfica from Al-Nassr
Former Aston Villa forward Jhon Duran is set to join Benfica on loan to rejuvenate his career following a challenging spell at Al-Nassr.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 4.0 / Author: Fatemeh Amuzad/Ali Haddadi Asl
Colombian forward Jhon Duran is on the verge of completing a loan move to Benfica. According to reports, the Portuguese side is finalizing an agreement with Al-Nassr that will see the 22-year-old return to European football.
To facilitate the deal, Al-Nassr has agreed to cover the majority of the player's substantial wages. CEO Jose Semedo has cleared the forward to seek a new club following a disappointing spell in Saudi Arabia. Duran is expected to travel to Lisbon in the coming days to undergo medical examinations.
The move comes after a difficult period for the former Aston Villa man, who signed for Al-Nassr in January 2025 for €77 million. He managed only 18 appearances during his time in the Saudi Pro League. His career has also been hampered by unsuccessful loan spells at Fenerbahce and Zenit St Petersburg, with the latter stint marked by disciplinary issues.
This transfer is a crucial opportunity for Duran to reclaim his form and push for a return to the Colombia national team. For Benfica, his arrival is intended to bolster the squad ahead of their domestic campaign and the upcoming Champions League league phase. He will begin integrating into Marco Silva's tactical system immediately upon arrival.