Fenerbahce go all in on Duran with €20m Mourinho move | OneFootball

Fenerbahce has officially confirmed the arrival of Jhon Duran on a one-year loan from Al Nassr, with the deal announced on July 6, 2025. The move brings the 22-year-old Colombian striker to Istanbul with immediate effect, as the club looks to recharge its attacking lineup for the upcoming season under José Mourinho.

Duran, who stands at 185 cm and boasts a market value of €35 million as of the transfer date, joins from the Saudi Pro League after a productive stint with Al Nassr. Over the previous season, Duran made 18 appearances in the league and found the net 12 times, a goal return matched by his efficiency in continental competition. In the AFC Champions League, he contributed 4 goals in just 5 appearances, clocking 447 minutes and earning an average match rating of 7.18.

Financially, this is a significant outlay for Fenerbahce. Reports suggest the loan fee alone is in the region of €15-16 million, with the total cost of the operation—including agent fees—expected to exceed €20 million. Fenerbahce will cover Duran's full salary for the duration of the loan. Notably, the agreement does not include a purchase option, though discussions are reportedly ongoing about a possible second year.

From Fenerbahce’s perspective, the scale of the investment signals a clear intent to make Duran a central figure, rather than simply bolstering the bench. His playing style, often characterized by his preference to drop deep and receive the ball, aligns with a forward-thinking approach Mourinho has sought in his squads. The emphasis on Duran’s integration suggests he will be expected to adapt quickly to the Turkish Super Lig and take on a significant share of the goal-scoring responsibilities.

Over in Saudi Arabia, Al Nassr’s decision to sanction the loan hints at a shift in their own squad planning. The club is said to be targeting Arsenal’s Gabriel Martinelli as a direct replacement, with reported willingness to spend up to €85 million for the Brazilian winger. The transition, however, was not without its hiccups, as Al Nassr initially delayed the official announcement due to outstanding documentation that needed league approval.

Fenerbahce supporters, for their part, kept a close eye on developments, expressing concern over the delay in confirmation but now turning attention to how Duran will fit into Mourinho’s plans. The club has yet to reveal details such as Duran's official squad number or the specifics of his presentation.

Despite earlier reports hinting at a potential long-term agreement with Duran, the current deal stands as a one-year arrangement. For now, both clubs will monitor how the move develops across the coming months, with Fenerbahce making a notable short-term gamble and Al Nassr preparing to reshape their attacking options.

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