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Newcastle United have the chance to sign ‘one of the most lethal strikers in Europe’

2 February 2026 at 17:39

Newcastle United have reportedly been offered the chance to bring Jhon Durán back to the Premier League before the transfer deadline, as intermediaries explore options for the forward’s future.

According to TEAMtalk, the Magpies are among several English clubs made aware of Durán’s availability amid uncertainty surrounding his current loan spell in Turkey.

The 22-year-old striker is currently on loan at Fenerbahçe from Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr, but the move has not gone entirely to plan.

Durán has managed just three goals in 10 league appearances, struggling to build momentum after missing nearly two months of the season through injury before returning in November.

That lack of rhythm has prompted discussions over a potential change of scenery before the window closes.

Newcastle United hold interest in Durán

Newcastle are understood to be monitoring the situation closely, with the club open to opportunistic additions if the right profile becomes available.

Durán’s name has also been circulated to Tottenham Hotspur and Leeds United, showing the belief that the striker could still thrive back in England under the right conditions.

However, Premier League sides face stiff competition from France. Lille are currently regarded as frontrunners, with talks ongoing over a potential move to Ligue 1 ahead of the deadline.

Lille’s interest is said to be driven by their track record of developing young attackers and providing a platform for players to rediscover form.

Durán proved himself in the Premier League

Jhon Duran in action for Al Nassr
Jhon Duran in action for Al Nassr (Photo by Abdullah Ahmed/Getty Images)

Despite his difficult campaign in Turkey, Durán’s previous spell in English football remains an encouraging reference point.

The Colombian joined Aston Villa from Chicago Fire in January 2023 and went on to score 15 goals in 55 Premier League appearances.

ESPN described Durán as “one of the most lethal strikers in Europe” for his performances during his time at Aston Villa.

Ultimately, his Villa exit came down to competition rather than a lack of ability.

With Unai Emery firmly committed to Ollie Watkins as his first-choice forward, regular minutes proved hard to come by, prompting Durán’s move abroad.

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The post Newcastle United have the chance to sign ‘one of the most lethal strikers in Europe’ appeared first on CaughtOffside.

Crystal Palace have been offered the chance to sign ex-Aston Villa star

1 February 2026 at 16:38

Crystal Palace have been presented with a late-market opportunity to strengthen their attacking options, with reports suggesting the club have been offered the chance to sign former Aston Villa striker Jhon Durán before the January transfer window closes.

According to TEAMtalk, there is significant movement behind the scenes regarding Durán’s short-term future.

French side Lille are understood to be in advanced talks to take over the striker’s loan for the remainder of the season and are currently viewed as being in pole position.

However, intermediaries have also been active in sounding out Premier League clubs, with Crystal Palace, Leeds United, Tottenham Hotspur, and Newcastle United all made aware of his availability.

Jhon Durán is looking to revive his career

Durán’s representatives are keen to secure a move that offers regular minutes during the second half of the campaign, after the forward struggled to establish himself following his exit from Aston Villa.

While the switch away from European football offered financial and profile benefits, his on-pitch involvement has been limited, a situation his camp are eager to rectify with the 2026 World Cup cycle in mind.

For Crystal Palace, the timing of the approach is particularly interesting.

The Eagles are facing mounting uncertainty over the future of Jean-Philippe Mateta, who has reportedly agreed a contract with AC Milan.

Mateta’s omission from Palace’s travelling squad for the Premier League fixture against Nottingham Forest has only intensified speculation that his time at Selhurst Park may be drawing to a close.

Should Mateta depart, Palace would face a clear need for attacking reinforcement. Durán’s profile offers a useful solution.

Crystal Palace face competition from Lille

Jhon Duran in action for Al Nassr
Jhon Duran in action for Al Nassr (Photo by Abdullah Ahmed/Getty Images)

During his time at Aston Villa, the Colombian impressed with his physical presence, direct running, and willingness to stretch defenses.

Although still raw, his age and prior experience in England make him a logical option compared to alternatives from unfamiliar leagues.

Lille’s advanced position suggests competition is fierce, but a Premier League return, particularly one offering regular starts, could prove appealing to the player.

For Palace, this is not just about replacing a potential outgoing striker, but about maintaining attacking momentum during a crucial phase of the season.

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The post Crystal Palace have been offered the chance to sign ex-Aston Villa star appeared first on CaughtOffside.

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