In a significant transfer, Jhon Duran has completed his move from Aston Villa to Saudi Pro League club Al-Nassr for a reported £64.5 million.
The 21-year-old striker, who has impressed with his goal-scoring ability at Villa, will now join the ranks of superstar players like Cristiano Ronaldo and Sadio Mane at Al-Nassr.
Duran’s Stellar Season at Aston Villa
Duran has enjoyed a solid season at Villa, scoring 12 goals in 29 appearances across all competitions.
This includes a crucial goal in the Champions League win against Bayern Munich.
Despite his impressive performances, Duran struggled to secure regular starting spots in Villa’s first team, with manager Unai Emery often opting for Ollie Watkins as the main striker.
New Chapter for Duran at Al-Nassr
After undergoing a medical on Thursday, Duran’s move to Al-Nassr was finalized.
The forward will wear the No. 9 shirt, the same number he wore at Villa.
The club expressed their best wishes for Duran’s future in a statement, acknowledging his contributions during his time at Villa.
Villa’s Transfer Plans Post-Duran Departure
With Duran now heading to Saudi Arabia, Villa may look to strengthen their attacking options.
Reports suggest the club could turn their attention to Manchester United’s Marcus Rashford, who has struggled to break into the first team under manager Ruben Amorim.
Rashford has been linked with a loan move, and with Duran’s departure, Villa’s pursuit of a new forward might be more urgent.
Arsenal’s Interest in Ollie Watkins Continues
Meanwhile, Aston Villa’s star striker Ollie Watkins has become the subject of intense transfer speculation, with Arsenal having made a bid for him.
The Gunners are long-time admirers of the 29-year-old, and their recent £60 million offer for Watkins was swiftly rejected by Villa.
The club’s management is reportedly unhappy with Arsenal’s approach and is determined to hold on to their striker for the foreseeable future.
As Villa works to finalize Duran’s departure, it seems unlikely that Watkins will also leave this window, with Villa remaining firm on keeping their star player.
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