Former forward target reappears on Barcelona radar as Julian Alvarez alternative | OneFootball

It is known that Barcelona continue to prioritise the signing of Julian Alvarez, but the club is also preparing contingency plans in case negotiations with Atletico Madrid fail to produce an agreement. 

In that regard, according to SPORT, Jhon Duran has emerged as a surprise option, with the Colombian striker now featuring among the names being considered if Barcelona are forced to move on from their preferred target.

The latest Barcelona transfer news comes after club president Joan Laporta admitted the Blaugrana will not allow talks for Alvarez to continue indefinitely. 

While the Argentina international remains Hansi Flick’s first choice to lead the attack, the sporting department is also evaluating alternative profiles to ensure the club is not left short of options later in the transfer window.

Barcelona revive interest in Jhon Duran

According to the report, Barcelona’s interest in Jhon Duran is not entirely new.

Jhon Duran wants to leave Al-Nassr. (Photo by Gabriel Aponte/Getty Images)

Sporting director Deco explored the possibility of signing the striker during his time at Aston Villa, even holding discussions with the player’s representatives before Duran ultimately accepted Al-Nassr’s lucrative offer in January 2025.

Since arriving in Saudi Arabia, the Colombian has struggled to establish himself. 

Loan spells with Zenit St. Petersburg and Fenerbahçe have offered him regular football, but his long-term future remains away from Al-Nassr.

The report adds that the Saudi club have authorised Duran’s entourage to search for a new destination, with Barcelona among the clubs sounded out because of the existing relationship between both parties.

Loan proposal could appeal to Barcelona

One factor that makes the Jhon Duran transfer attractive is the structure of a potential deal.

Benfica are also interested in Duran. (Photo by Ahmad Mora/Getty Images)

As such, Al-Nassr are open to allowing the 22-year-old to leave on loan with an option to buy, a formula that could suit Barcelona.

At the same time, however, it is important to note that the striker is also attracting interest from Benfica, with reports suggesting the Portuguese club have already opened talks and held direct discussions with the player’s representatives.

Duran is said to be determined to return to European football, believing a move away from Saudi Arabia would allow him to reignite a career that stalled after his early departure from the Premier League. 

At just 22, he remains a player with considerable qualities and significant room for development.