Revealed: Man Utd Snubbed Loan Deal for £336k-a-Week Jhon Duran

Ex-Aston Villa Striker Set to Leave Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr After Just Six Months

In the ever-turbulent world of football transfers, a curious twist has emerged involving Manchester United, Jhon Duran, and the mega-rich Saudi Pro League. According to new reports, United were recently offered the chance to sign the former Aston Villa striker on loan from Al-Nassr, where he currently earns a jaw-dropping £336,000-a-week — but the Red Devils chose to pass.

The Colombian forward, just 20 years old, only made the switch to Saudi Arabia six months ago as part of a £66 million ($91m) deal. But now, with game time limited and his future unclear, Duran is already considering his options. And while a temporary move to Old Trafford might’ve seemed like a natural next step, United had other plans.

Let’s unpack the full story — what happened, why United weren’t interested, and what’s next for the young striker who once looked destined for Premier League stardom.

What Happened With the Jhon Duran Loan Offer?

Cristiano Ronaldo Jhon Duran

As revealed by transfer insider Fabrizio Romano, United were approached with a loan proposal for Jhon Duran, with the idea being a short-term spell to bolster their attacking line. Under the terms of the deal, United would cover Duran’s full salary but wouldn’t be tied to a permanent transfer.

On paper, it sounds like the kind of move United might’ve considered. They’re currently in the market for a No.9, and Rasmus Hojlund, while promising, can’t carry the weight of the attack on his own. But despite the relatively low-risk nature of the deal (no large transfer fee involved), the club said “thanks, but no thanks.”

Romano stated:

“Manchester United were offered the possibility of signing Jhon Duran from Al-Nassr on an initial loan deal covering his salary. But United decided to turn down that possibility to focus on different targets.”

So why say no to a young striker with Premier League experience and international pedigree? Let’s look deeper.

The Bigger Picture: United’s Search for Firepower

Jhon Duran Al-Nassr 2024-25

Manchester United’s hunt for a reliable striker is no secret. Despite flashes of brilliance from Hojlund, and the reported pursuit of players like Victor Osimhen and Viktor Gyokeres, the club has struggled to establish a dominant presence up front.

Joshua Zirkzee, another young talent, is reportedly being tracked closely, while links to more experienced names have come and gone in recent months. But with financial fair play restrictions and budget considerations in mind, the club is choosing to be calculated with its moves.

And here’s where Duran didn’t fit the mold.

While the Colombian has talent and potential, his current wages at Al-Nassr are astronomical — £336,000-a-week places him among the highest earners in football, and that’s without the guaranteed return on the pitch. United seemingly decided that those funds could be better invested elsewhere, especially when they’re looking for a long-term striker rather than a stop-gap solution.

Who is Jhon Duran?

For those who might not be familiar, Jhon Duran arrived in England with Aston Villa in early 2023 from MLS side Chicago Fire. At the time, he was heralded as one of the brightest young attacking talents from South America. Strong, quick, and with an eye for goal, he showed flashes of brilliance during his time in the Premier League, though opportunities were limited.

He never quite nailed down a starting role at Villa Park, and when the Saudi Pro League revolution kicked off, Al-Nassr swooped in with an offer too good to refuse — both for Villa and the player. Duran joined a star-studded Al-Nassr squad, lining up alongside Cristiano Ronaldo, Sadio Mané, and Marcelo Brozović.

But six months later, things haven’t quite gone according to plan.

Exit After Just Six Months: Why Duran Wants Out

Despite the fanfare surrounding his arrival, Duran has struggled for minutes at Al-Nassr. The competition for places is fierce, and the tactical demands in Saudi football differ greatly from the pace and intensity of the Premier League or European football.

Sources close to the player suggest he’s growing increasingly frustrated with his lack of game time and is eager to return to Europe — ideally to a club where he can develop and play regularly.

That’s where the loan proposal to Manchester United came into the picture. But with that door closed, Duran’s representatives have started looking elsewhere.

Fenerbahce Calling: A Reunion With Mourinho?

One of the most intriguing possibilities on the table for Duran now lies in Turkey, where newly appointed Fenerbahçe manager José Mourinho is reportedly a fan of the player.

Talks have already begun between Duran’s camp and the Turkish giants, and a move could materialize quickly if both sides find common ground. Mourinho, who famously values physical forwards and thrives with a strong No.9 leading the line, could see Duran as a perfect fit for his system.

For Duran, the move would offer him a platform to restart his European journey under one of the game’s most successful coaches. It may not be the Premier League, but it’s still a step up in terms of visibility and competition compared to his current situation.

What Does This Say About United’s Transfer Strategy?

United’s refusal to bring in Duran on loan tells us something important: they’re being more selective and strategic with their recruitment.

Gone are the days of panic buys and short-term solutions that don’t align with the club’s long-term vision. The current approach seems to be focused on building a sustainable squad, filled with players that match a specific profile — technically strong, young but experienced, and tactically adaptable.

Of course, fans may argue that turning down a young, hungry forward while still lacking depth up front is risky. But in the bigger picture, the move to bypass Duran might simply be part of a larger plan involving more refined targets.

Final Thoughts: A Twist in the Tale for Duran

This saga highlights the unpredictable nature of modern football careers. In the span of 18 months, Jhon Duran has gone from MLS to the Premier League, then to Saudi Arabia, and now potentially to Turkey — all before his 21st birthday.

It’s a reminder that talent alone isn’t always enough. Timing, opportunity, and decision-making play just as big a role. For United, the choice to walk away from Duran might seem minor now, but it could end up looking either very smart — or like a missed opportunity — depending on how his next move unfolds.

As for Duran himself, the next chapter is still being written. Whether it’s Fenerbahce under Mourinho or another surprise destination, one thing is certain: this won’t be the last we hear of him.