It appears that progress is finally being made regarding Everton’s search for a striker.
The Toffees have been scanning the market all month, showing some tentative interest in Jorgen Strand Larsen and Tammy Abraham, and even making an unsuccessful bid for Youssef En-Nesyri. But up until now, the Friedkin Group had not pulled the trigger on anything.
But as we approach the deadline, things seem to be changing. Everton have reportedly shown interest in Jhon Duran – who previously played for Aston Villa – and there are now fresh updates from Turkey suggesting good news could be on the way.
Jhon Duran left out by Fenerbahce as he eyes Premier League move
Things seem to be moving quickly on this front.
According to an initial report from TRT Spor, Duran, who is currently on loan from Al-Nassr, wished to remain at Fenerbahce.
But Sabah now reports that Fenerbahce have dropped the Colombia international from the squad for the UEFA Europa League match against Basel in a bid for the striker to sort out his future.
The same report suggests that Duran is now open to a return to England, which could be down to pressure from Fenerbahce following a modest tally of five goals in 21 appearances.
Al-Nassr paid £64m for him just a year ago in January 2025, so it remains unclear what kind of fee they would expect for a permanent deal this window.
Why a Jhon Duran move would justify Everton’s cautious approach
Most January moves tend to materialise later in the window, and that appears to be playing out again this year.
If the move for Duran does end up going through, it is hard to argue against how the club has handled things this time around.
Duran was one of the most talked-about forwards in Europe last season, especially after his goal against Manuel Neuer at Villa Park and his Premier League Goal of the Month winner over Jordan Pickford.
Al-Nassr’s £64m bid for him did not surprise many. If Everton manage to bring him in following his struggles in Saudi Arabia and Turkey, it would be a huge addition for David Moyes. Given how much they have spent without results lately, this would be a needed success story for them.
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