how to fill middle of image by drag/zoom rest of image

[rich2005]

There is a set of plugins that might do what you require. Resynthesizer (compiled plugin) + 'heal' python plugins

Then it depends on your version of linux and does Gimp come with python enabled ?

Before going any further, check this https://i.imgur.com/s8Wy6AV.mp4 3 different settings used. Do any get near to your requirement ?