Seven clubs at the age of just 22 — Jhon Duran’s career is moving at a dizzying pace. The former Aston Villa striker has joined Benfica on a season-long loan from Saudi Arabian side Al-Nassr, with the Portuguese giants holding an option to buy. For Premier League fans who watched the Colombian burst onto the scene at Villa Park, it is the latest twist in one of the game’s most restless young careers.
Loan confirmed from Al-Nassr with buy option
Benfica have confirmed the season-long loan signing of Jhon Duran from Al-Nassr. The Portuguese club will pay a £5.19m (€6.1m) loan fee for the Colombia international, with the option to make the move permanent for £25.5m (€30m) at the end of the 2026-27 season.
“I am happy! I continue to say that it is the biggest club in Portugal. I am very grateful to be here,” Duran said after signing. At 22, Benfica become the seventh club of his career, following recent stints with Fenerbahce and Zenit St Petersburg.
From Aston Villa to a nomadic path
Duran made his name in the Premier League with Aston Villa, where his power and eye for the spectacular marked him out as one of the division’s most exciting young forwards. His departure to the Saudi Pro League was one of the more debated transfers of its window.
Since leaving England, the striker’s output has dipped — he scored twice in nine appearances for Zenit. Benfica, long regarded as a club that revives and resells talent, will hope to restore his stock before deciding whether to trigger the permanent option, a storyline Premier League recruiters will follow closely.
FAQ
Which club has Jhon Duran joined?
Jhon Duran has joined Benfica on a season-long loan from Saudi Arabian side Al-Nassr.
How much is the transfer worth?
Benfica are paying a £5.19m (€6.1m) loan fee, with an option to sign him permanently for £25.5m (€30m) at the end of 2026-27.
Why is this his seventh club?
At just 22, Duran has already played for seven clubs, including Aston Villa, Al-Nassr, Fenerbahce and Zenit St Petersburg.
What nationality is Jhon Duran?
He is a Colombia international who plays as a centre-forward.
How did he perform before the move?
His recent form was modest, with two goals in nine appearances for Zenit St Petersburg before joining Benfica.
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