The football transfer window is reaching its dramatic climax, with former Aston Villa striker Jhon Duran at the centre of a frantic deadline day scramble. The Colombian forward's representatives are working against the clock to secure a last-minute loan move, with a return to English football understood to be his preferred destination.
Duran's Desire for an English Return
Currently on loan at Turkish giants Fenerbahce from Saudi Arabian club Al‑Nassr, the 22-year-old has seen his proposed switch to French side Lille collapse. This has triggered a desperate push from his camp to arrange an alternative deal before the window slams shut. Reports indicate that Fenerbahce are willing to facilitate his departure, opening the door for a swift resolution.
Despite his contract with Al‑Nassr, a move back to the Middle East has been firmly ruled out, with Duran's sights set firmly on a comeback in England. His limited game time in Turkey, making just 10 Super Lig appearances, has only heightened his desire for a fresh start and regular football.
Premier League and Championship Interest
A clutch of English clubs have registered their interest in the powerful forward. Tottenham Hotspur, Nottingham Forest, and Leeds United are all said to have made contact with Duran's representatives last week. The opportunity for a loan deal remains actively on the table as the deadline approaches.
Leeds United's interest appears particularly pertinent, as their primary striker target, Jorgen Strand Larsen, is now expected to join Crystal Palace. This could potentially open a slot for Duran at Elland Road. However, the report notes that clubs have so far been hesitant to make a firm, binding commitment to the deal.
Alternative Destinations Loom
Should a return to England fail to materialise in the final hours, an alternative path has reportedly emerged. Russian powerhouse Zenit St Petersburg are said to be prepared to step in and offer Duran a loan for the remainder of the season, providing a fallback option for the player and his advisors.
Duran's high-profile £65 million move from Aston Villa to Al‑Nassr in January 2025 was structured with add-ons, a deal that pleased Villa chiefs as it avoided selling him to a direct Premier League rival at the time. West Ham had also shown strong interest, amidst speculation that Villa were deciding between selling Duran or Ollie Watkins to raise funds.
Wrexham's Interest in Villa's Young Defender
In a separate but related development, Championship side Wrexham are reportedly showing interest in another Aston Villa asset. According to reports, the Welsh club are eyeing a move for young Villa right-back Kosta Nedeljkovic.
The 20-year-old Serbian is currently on loan at Bundesliga side RB Leipzig but has struggled for minutes both domestically and in European competitions. This lack of game time has prompted Wrexham to explore the possibility of cutting into that existing loan agreement to bring him to Wales for their promotion push.
However, the potential deal is complicated by Villa's understandable desire for guarantees over his playing time. This is a particular sticking point given that Wrexham already have Issa Kabore available to play in the same right-back position, potentially limiting Nedeljkovic's opportunities.
As the deadline hour approaches, the futures of both Jhon Duran and Kosta Nedeljkovic hang in the balance, showcasing the intricate and fast-paced nature of football's transfer market.
