Jhon Duran (foto: uradna spletna stran kluba)
Colombian striker Jhon Duran leaves Al Nassr to join Fenerbahçe on loan, marking a huge boost for Mourinho's title-chasing side in Turkey.
Fenerbahçe have pulled off a sensational transfer by signing Jhon Duran on loan from Al Nassr, in a move reported to be worth €80 million in total value, including loan fees and salary commitments. The 21-year-old Colombian striker returns to European football just one year after his record €77 million switch from Aston Villa to Saudi Arabia.
Despite scoring 12 goals in 18 appearances for Al Nassr, Duran is said to have grown disillusioned with life in Saudi Arabia. Now, under José Mourinho, he will be expected to lead Fenerbahçe’s attack in what promises to be one of the most intense Turkish league campaigns in recent memory.
Duran is the club’s second major signing this summer, following the arrival of midfielder Sofyan Amrabat, and Fenerbahçe are reportedly not done yet, with further high-profile additions in the pipeline.
Mourinho, entering his debut season in Istanbul, faces enormous pressure to deliver a title, especially after Galatasaray’s dominant campaign last year. In fact, Duran’s arrival mirrors Galatasaray’s previous strategy, when they secured Victor Osimhen on loan, a move that paid off with 37 goals and 8 assists in 41 appearances.
Fenerbahçe fans will be hoping for a similar impact from Duran, whose raw power, finishing, and hunger have already made him one of the most exciting young strikers on the continent.
Meanwhile, Galatasaray are pushing hard to bring Osimhen back for another season, setting the stage for a thrilling showdown between Turkey’s two giants. With Beşiktaş still regrouping, this season could be one of the most dramatic in recent Süper Lig history.