Jhon Duran was circulated to several Premier League sides during the January transfer window as he pushed for a swift return to English football, just a year after departing Aston Villa.
The 22-year-old joined Al Nassr last January but has since had brief spells at Fenerbahce and, more recently, moved on loan to Zenit. His availability sparked links to multiple English clubs, including Tottenham, yet insiders claim no team made any serious approach.
As revealed on Football Insider’s Transfer Insider podcast, much of the speculation surrounding Spurs and other Premier League sides reportedly stemmed from the player’s representatives rather than concrete club interest. Villa had allowed Duran to leave amid concerns over his attitude, despite acknowledging his obvious ability and strong performances, and it’s believed similar reservations persist elsewhere.
After teaming up with Cristiano Ronaldo at Al Nassr, Duran netted 12 goals in 18 matches but did not remain long. His stint at Fenerbahce proved less productive, yielding five goals in 21 appearances before the loan was cut short as he sought another opportunity.
Failing to secure a Premier League return, Duran ultimately joined Zenit, though further links to English clubs could resurface once that deal concludes.
Discussing the situation on the podcast, it was explained that Duran’s recent career path — from MLS to Aston Villa, then Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and now Russia — suggests there was limited genuine momentum behind a Premier League comeback in January. Reports indicate he was offered to clubs rather than actively targeted, making an immediate return unlikely.
Prior to his Saudi move, Duran had attracted attention from major clubs such as Chelsea and Real Madrid after Villa signaled their willingness to sell. Despite leaving Unai Emery with Ollie Watkins as the only recognized senior striker at the time, the club opted to part ways with him.
Earlier reports suggested Duran’s frustrations over playing time and role within the squad created tension behind the scenes — issues that appear to have followed him, given the short-lived nature of his subsequent moves.
While Tottenham were mentioned as potential suitors, that interest is thought to have been largely agent-driven, making a future Premier League switch uncertain. A permanent stay at Zenit remains a possibility as his career continues to unfold.
