Former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has expressed ‘surprise’ over Jhon Duran’s big-money move from Aston Villa to the Saudi Pro League, SPL, in January.

Duran was just beginning to make a name for himself in the Premier League.

The 21-year-old scored 12 goals in the first half of the season for Aston Villa, despite playing second fiddle to Ollie Watkins for most of the campaign.

He made no secret of his grievances over a lack of regular playing time under manager Unai Emery.

His future was the subject of intense speculation throughout the January transfer window.

Several top clubs were alerted to a potential move for Duran, including Barcelona and West Ham, while Arsenal reportedly made an approach for him.

“Duran is a young player. He played at Aston Villa, where he was adored and loved,” Wenger told Al-Nassr’s official website.

“It was a surprise that during the season, from the Premier League, he moves to the Saudi Pro League.

“But congratulations, they have done a good job there.”

“For me, Saudi and Al-Nassr have great coaches,” the Frenchman added.

“They have great players, they have a world figure number one with Cristiano Ronaldo, who is an example for every young player.”