Grêmio dispute Vitória chief’s claim over Wagner Leonardo debt after 1-0 win | OneFootball

Grêmio have rejected Vitória president Fábio Mota’s assertions over money owed for defender Wagner Leonardo, made after Monday’s 1-0 win at Barradão.

According to Globo.com, Grêmio accept there is a debt but say it is a little over US$ one million, not US$ two point five million cited by Mota.

Grêmio rejected Mota’s claim that no directors attended, saying their football leadership were present, naming Rafael Lima and Paulo Pelaipe. They also deny being notified in any lawsuit and say the dispute is not before the CNRD, which they view as the proper forum.

Earlier this year, Grêmio sought a settlement. Talks included Vitória taking Wagner Leonardo back, plus a payment to close the balance, and Grêmio agreed to progress.

Vitória then requested a formal bank guarantee. Grêmio say they obtained it, but Vitória declined the deal.

Mota also labelled Grêmio a non-paying side and said it would be unjust to lose to them at Barradão.

There has also been behind-the-scenes suggestion that the full transfer fee was advanced via an investment fund, meaning Vitória have already received the amount and must repay a creditor.

Grêmio filed a collective plan with the CNRD this year that did not list any Vitória debt. Last year, Vitória went to the chamber over a separate matter involving left-back Lucas Esteves.

Grêmio signed Wagner Leonardo at the start of 2025 for US$ four point five million from Vitória. He was on the bench on Monday and remains a reserve.

Source: Globo.com

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