Jhon Duran has burst into the Portuguese league like a colossus, as the 22-year-old Colombian sensation seals a season-long loan deal with Benfica from Saudi Arabian giants Al-Nassr. This is the latest chapter in an already eventful career that's taken him to seven different clubs across multiple continents – and this transfer sees Benfica splash out £5.19 million (6.1 million euros) on his services for 2026-27, with a permanent option worth £25.5 million (30 million euros).
The young striker has made no secret of his excitement to join the Portuguese powerhouse, declaring, "I am happy! I continue to say that it is the biggest club in Portugal. I am very grateful to be here. I have very high expectations of being here. I want to play well, give my all and become champion." Duran's infectious enthusiasm has already won over Benfica fans, who will be eagerly anticipating his impact on the pitch.
After a whirlwind journey that began with Colombian side Envigado in 2019, Duran's rise to prominence accelerated dramatically when he moved to MLS team Chicago Fire in 2022. A £14 million switch to Aston Villa followed in January 2023, where he became an instant fan favourite after netting a priceless winner against Bayern Munich in the Champions League.
Despite West Ham's interest in the summer of 2024, Duran remained at Villa Park before making a major £71 million transfer to Al-Nassr in January 2025. However, his stay in Saudi Arabia was brief, with eight goals in 13 appearances before a loan move to Fenerbahce – only for that spell to be cut short after Jose Mourinho's departure. Duran then moved on to Zenit St Petersburg, where he scored three goals in nine games.
This latest transfer represents another high-stakes opportunity for the talented forward to prove himself at the very top of European football. With his rapid-fire succession of moves, Duran is now firmly on the radar of football fans worldwide – and Benfica's Portuguese league debutants are about to find out what they're missing.