Jhon Durán Ready to Leave Cristiano Ronaldo Behind at Al-Nassr and Join José Mourinho’s Fenerbahçe

The Turkish side is close to landing the Colombian striker, and local media can’t believe the potential of this young goalscorer who has shined everywhere he's played.

Fenerbahçe is on the verge of signing Jhon Jader Durán, the 21-year-old Colombian striker currently playing alongside Cristiano Ronaldo at Al-Nassr. The Turkish club has negotiated a loan deal with a purchase option and is offering to cover the full salary for the upcoming season, sparking major buzz among fans and Turkish press.

Cristiano Ronaldo and Jhon Durán at Al-Nassr.

Who is Durán?

Durán rose through the ranks at Envigado FC before moving to Chicago Fire in MLS, where he impressed enough to earn a move to Aston Villa. His time in the Premier League was fruitful (55 appearances, 12 goals), leading to the biggest offer of his life.

Just six months ago, Al-Nassr splashed €77 million to sign him—making him the most expensive Colombian player in history, even surpassing Luis Díaz. His spell in Saudi Arabia has been productive (12 goals in the Pro League + 8 in the AFC Champions League), and despite some struggles to adapt, his potential has stood out.

Key points of the move

Now, just half a year later, Durán seems set to move to Turkey and join Fenerbahçe. Here's what’s driving the transfer:

The Mourinho effect: The coach approved the move and has been actively involved in talks with Al-Nassr and Durán.
A personal touch: The club’s sporting director traveled to Colombia to convince the player, presenting a tailored offer (currency, housing, environment).
All-in package: The deal includes a full-salary loan, performance bonuses, and an option to buy after evaluation.

What does Durán bring to Fenerbahçe?

Standing 1.85 meters tall, with blistering pace and a killer instinct in front of goal, Durán is a perfect fit to lead the line under The Special One. Mourinho is looking for young, impactful players to complement or eventually replace veteran Edin Džeko. Durán’s arrival could energize the attack and reignite fans’ dreams of silverware.

What’s next?

The verbal agreement is nearly finalized. Fenerbahçe is waiting on medical tests to seal the deal and unveil Durán during an event with Adidas.

If the Colombian makes the move to Istanbul, he won’t just be a goalscorer—he’ll be a symbol of ambition, a tactical weapon, and a nod to Fenerbahçe’s long-term European aspirations.