Barcelona Revive Interest in Jhon Duran as Julian Alvarez Backup Option
Barcelona remain fully focused on signing Julian Alvarez this summer, but the club is already preparing alternative plans in case negotiations with Atletico Madrid fail to reach an agreement.
With president Joan Laporta making it clear that Barcelona will not allow the Alvarez saga to continue indefinitely, the sporting department has started evaluating other attacking options.
According to SPORT, one name that has unexpectedly returned to Barcelona’s radar is Jhon Duran.
The Colombian striker has emerged as a potential alternative should the Blaugrana decide to move away from their preferred target.
Julian Alvarez Remains Flick’s First Choice
Julian Alvarez continues to be Hansi Flick’s priority for the No. 9 position.
The Barcelona coach believes the Argentine forward has the ideal profile to lead the attack after Robert Lewandowski’s departure, thanks to his goalscoring ability, pressing intensity and versatility in the final third.
However, Atletico Madrid’s reluctance to negotiate has forced Barcelona to consider other possibilities.
The club wants to avoid reaching the final stages of the transfer window without a clear striker solution, meaning alternative names are now being discussed internally.
Deco Previously Explored Jhon Duran Transfer
Barcelona’s interest in Jhon Duran is not completely new.
Sporting director Deco already considered the Colombian forward during his time at Aston Villa and reportedly held conversations with the player’s representatives before Duran eventually chose a move to Saudi Arabia.
In January 2025, the striker accepted a lucrative offer from Al-Nassr, leaving European football behind at a young age.
However, his time in Saudi Arabia has not developed as expected.
Although loan spells at Zenit St. Petersburg and Fenerbahçe provided him with regular playing opportunities, Duran has struggled to establish himself as a key figure at Al-Nassr.
Al-Nassr Open Door for European Return
Duran’s current situation has created an opportunity for Barcelona and other European clubs.
Reports indicate that Al-Nassr have given permission to the striker’s representatives to search for a new destination.
A return to Europe is believed to be a priority for the 22-year-old, who wants to restart his career at the highest level.
Barcelona’s existing relationship with the player’s camp could help facilitate discussions if the club decides to advance its interest.
Loan Deal Could Suit Barcelona
One of the biggest advantages of a potential Jhon Duran move is the possibility of a flexible transfer structure.
Al-Nassr are reportedly open to allowing the striker to leave on loan with an option to buy, a formula that could appeal to Barcelona due to their financial situation.
The arrangement would allow the Catalan club to assess Duran’s performances before making a permanent commitment.
However, Barcelona are not the only European club interested.
Portuguese giants Benfica have also reportedly opened talks and have already held discussions with the striker’s representatives.
Duran Looking to Rebuild His Career
At just 22 years old, Duran remains a player with significant potential.
His physical strength, speed, and finishing ability made him one of the most exciting young forwards in the Premier League during his time at Aston Villa.
However, his move away from England slowed his progress, and the Colombian now believes returning to European football is the best way to revive his career.
For Barcelona, Julian Alvarez remains the dream signing.
But if Atletico Madrid refuse to negotiate, Jhon Duran could become one of the unexpected options considered to lead Flick’s attack next season.