Palmeiras unlikely to land Nino now, aim to seal June deal as Zenit hold firm | OneFootball

Palmeiras are unlikely to sign Nino now and are working on a June move, with Zenit resisting an immediate release. According to Globo.com, the centre-back remains plan A with two weeks left in Brazil's window.

Nino is under contract at Zenit until June 2028 and the Russian club do not intend to part with him during their league title push.

Palmeiras remain willing to conclude a deal mid-year as part of a longer-term plan beyond the first half of 2026. Their preference is to agree terms now for a June arrival, but there is no agreement with Zenit.

Talks with the player's representatives moved forward in early February, and a club envoy travelled to Abu Dhabi to try to unlock negotiations. He then flew to England to finalise the signing of Jhon Arias without reaching an agreement with the Russian side.

Meanwhile, the club are discussing other centre-back options, though no names have been disclosed. Before focusing on Nino, they made an enquiry for Brighton's Igor Julio, which did not progress.

Since the start of the season Palmeiras have signed Marlon Freitas and Jhon Arias for midfield and attack, and are now prioritising the defence after Micael joined Inter Miami. The centre-backs available are Gustavo Gómez, Murilo, Bruno Fuchs and Benedetti.

Source: Globo.com