Jhon Duran Joins Benfica on Loan from Al‑Nassr

Loan Agreement Terms

Colombian forward Jhon Duran has inked a season‑long loan with Benfica, who will hand over a £5.19 million fee to Al‑Nassr. The Portuguese club retains an option to purchase the player permanently for £25.5 million when the 2026‑27 campaign ends. At 22 years old, Duran described the move as a “happy” moment and praised Benfica as “the biggest club in Portugal.”

Career Timeline Overview

Duran’s professional adventure started with Envigado in 2019, then took him to Chicago Fire in 2022. A £14 million transfer brought him to Aston Villa in January 2023, where he quickly became a favourite among supporters. A summer‑window deal with West Ham collapsed in 2024, but a spectacular strike against Bayern Munich sealed a £71 million sale to Al‑Nassr that January. After a half‑season stint in Saudi Arabia, he moved to Fenerbahçe, then to Zenit after a brief loan was cut short.

At Al‑Nassr Duran scored eight goals in 13 games, yet his stay was short‑lived. A loan to Fenerbahçe was terminated following manager José Mourinho’s departure in early 2026, leading to a quick switch to Zenit. He delivered three goals in nine appearances for the Russian side, adding another brief chapter to a fast‑moving career.

What Duran Hopes to Achieve

In his opening remarks, Duran said he is “happy” and called Benfica “the biggest club in Portugal.” He also stated he has “very high expectations” and aims to “play well, give my all and become champion.” The Colombian is eager to make a lasting impact in a squad that regularly challenges for trophies.

Looking Ahead

Benfica’s acquisition places Duran at his seventh club and seventh country in just a few years. The loan arrangement positions him as a key attacking option for the upcoming season, with a potential permanent transfer valued at £25.5 million. Success here could finally give him a stable home after a series of quick moves.