Colombian striker Jhon Duran is set to commute 600 miles from Bahrain to Saudi Arabia following his £70 million move to Al-Nassr.
Duran, 21, finalized his transfer from Aston Villa last week but has informed his new club that he prefers to live in Bahrain rather than Saudi Arabia.
The decision is reportedly influenced by concerns over whether he and his girlfriend would be permitted to cohabit under Saudi law.
While some foreign players, such as Cristiano Ronaldo, live with their partners in Saudi Arabia, housing regulations often require proof of marriage for rental agreements.
Duran appears to be following the example of former Al-Ettifaq manager Steven Gerrard and ex-Liverpool midfielder Jordan Henderson, who were also based in Bahrain while playing or coaching in Saudi Arabia.
However, Duran’s commute will be more demanding. Unlike Al-Ettifaq’s base in Dammam, which is just an hour’s drive from Bahrain, Al-Nassr is located on the outskirts of Riyadh—more than 300 miles away.
The shortest flight between Bahrain and Riyadh takes around 80 minutes, meaning he will need to endure a rigorous travel schedule.
Despite the logistical challenges, Duran’s lucrative contract—reportedly worth £320,000 per week—will make the commute financially feasible.
His tax-free salary equates to £16.7 million per year, or approximately £1.4 million per month.
Duran, who wore the No. 9 jersey for Villa, will retain the same number at Al-Nassr.
He departs the Premier League after scoring 20 goals in 78 appearances since joining Villa from MLS side Chicago Fire in January 2023.
Villa confirmed his departure in a statement thanking him for his contributions, highlighting his decisive goal against Bayern Munich in the Champions League this season.
His exit could provide financial flexibility for Villa to secure a permanent move for Marcus Rashford, who is close to joining on loan from Manchester United.
Duran is expected to make his Al-Nassr debut next Friday against Al Feiha at Al-Awwal Park.
