Aston Villa's Jhon Duran Joins Saudi Arabia's Al Nassr For 64 Million

Aston Villa striker Jhon Duran has completed a move to Saudi Pro League side Al Nassr for a reported 64 million, following a season of impressive but limited appearances at Villa Park.

Despite struggling to secure a regular starting spot in Villa's lineup, the 21-year-old Colombian made a notable impact, scoring 12 goals for the club. His most memorable contribution came in Villa's remarkable Champions League victory over Bayern Munich, where Duran scored the decisive goal.

Duran will now join Al Nassr, where he will link up with global football stars Cristiano Ronaldo and Sadio Mane. The deal marks the second-largest transfer fee in Aston Villas history, after Jack Grealishs 100 million move to Manchester City.

Jhon Duran joined Villa from Chicago Fire for 18 million in January 2023. Over his time at the club, he made 78 appearances, netting 20 goals but only starting seven Premier League matches.

With Duran's departure, Villa are expected to retain England striker Ollie Watkins, who had attracted interest from Arsenal, with reports of a 60 million bid for the player. Villa manager Unai Emery confirmed that Watkins had expressed his desire to remain with the club.