Jhon Duran has dismissed claims that financial considerations were the main reason behind his decision to leave Aston Villa for Saudi Pro League giants Al Nassr.
The Colombia international completed his move to the Riyadh-based club on Friday in a deal that could reportedly rise to €80 million, with the striker signing a five-year contract.
Softfootball reports that Duran will now play alongside Cristiano Ronaldo after making the high-profile switch to the Saudi Arabian club.
The 21-year-old forward insisted that only he, his family and his agent know the real reasons behind the decision to move to Al Nassr.
In an interview with the club’s official website, Duran said:
I am very happy with this step. People speculate, but only my family, my agent and I know why we made these decisions.
The former Aston Villa attacker also spoke highly of Ronaldo, describing the five-time Ballon d’Or winner as the biggest star in football. He added:
For me, he is the biggest star in football. I am hoping to get there quickly, to be able to learn everything he can teach me and follow in his footsteps.
Duran will now look to make an impact in Saudi Arabia while sharing the dressing room with one of the most decorated players in football history.
