Jhon Duran Joins Benfica on Loan from Al-Nassr
August 20, 2026 · Silvia Salazar
Jhon Duran, a former Aston Villa striker, has joined Benfica on loan from Al-Nassr, marking his seventh club at just 22 years old.
Jhon Duran Joins Benfica on Loan from Al-Nassr
According to Sports.
Background
Jhon Duran's career trajectory has seen him move from Envigado in Colombia to the MLS with Chicago Fire, and then to Aston Villa, where he gained notoriety for his goal-scoring ability. His transfer to Al-Nassr marked a significant step, but the loan to Benfica presents a vital opportunity for player development, allowing him to showcase his skills in a European league known for its competitive nature.
Why this matters
Jhon Duran's loan to Benfica highlights the club's ambition to strengthen its attacking options in the competitive Portuguese league. At just 22, Duran's rapid progression through clubs underscores his potential as a key player, which is crucial for Benfica as they aim for domestic and European success. This move also reflects the ongoing trends in the transfer market, where young talents are sought after for their ability to develop and make an immediate impact.
Key Takeaways
- Jhon Duran Joins Benfica on Loan from Al-Nassr.
- Jhon Duran, a former Aston Villa striker, has joined Benfica on loan from Al-Nassr, marking his seventh club at just 22 years old.
- Jhon Duran remains central to Benfica's plans.
Duran's career began in Colombia with Envigado in 2019, after which he ventured to Major League Soccer with Chicago Fire in 2022. His impressive performances caught the eye of Aston Villa, leading to a £14 million transfer in January 2023. At Villa, Duran quickly became a fan favorite, particularly after scoring a memorable winner against Bayern Munich in the Champions League.
Despite a proposed move to West Ham falling through in 2024, Duran's journey continued with a high-profile transfer to Al-Nassr for £71 million in January 2025. During his time with the Saudi club, he scored eight goals in 13 appearances, demonstrating his goal-scoring prowess. However, his journey took another turn with a loan to Fenerbahce, which was cut short after the sacking of manager Jose Mourinho. Subsequently, Duran moved to Zenit St Petersburg, where he continued to impress with three goals in nine games.
Now, with the move to Benfica, Duran hopes to establish himself firmly and contribute to the team's success. The Portuguese club, known for its rich history and competitive spirit, provides Duran with a platform to showcase his skills on a prominent European stage. His journey reflects the dynamic nature of football careers and the opportunities that arise for talented players across the globe. Fans will be keen to see how Duran adapts to his new environment and what impact he will have in the Primeira Liga.
What happens next
As Duran integrates into Benfica's squad, fans and analysts will be watching closely to see how he adapts to the Portuguese league. His performance could influence whether Benfica exercises the option to make the transfer permanent at the end of the 2026-27 season. Additionally, Duran's success at Benfica may open further opportunities for him in the summer transfer window, potentially attracting interest from other top clubs across Europe.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Jhon Duran?
Jhon Duran is a talented Colombian striker who has joined Benfica on loan from Al-Nassr.
Where did Jhon Duran come from before joining Benfica?
Before joining Benfica, Jhon Duran was with Al-Nassr, having transferred there from Aston Villa.
Why did Jhon Duran choose to join Benfica?
Jhon Duran expressed excitement about joining Benfica, calling it the biggest club in Portugal and stating he has high expectations to perform well.
What is the loan fee for Jhon Duran's transfer to Benfica?
The loan fee for Jhon Duran's transfer to Benfica is £5.19 million (approximately 6.1 million euros).
When will Jhon Duran's loan deal be official?
The loan deal for Jhon Duran to Benfica is effective for the season, but the option for a permanent transfer can be activated at the end of the 2026-27 season.
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