Palmeiras step up move for Nino and push Zenit for immediate release | OneFootball

Palmeiras have stepped up talks for Nino and are working to persuade Zenit to approve an immediate move. According to Globo.com, the Russian club have not yet accepted the undisclosed bid, though optimism inside the Academia de Futebol has grown.

Discussions have been ongoing since the start of the year. Palmeiras view the centre-back as their leading defensive target and want him now. The club have until 3 March to register signings and are negotiating on other fronts, with Jhon Arias of Wolverhampton among them.

One option under debate, if Zenit do not agree to release him now, is to conclude the transfer immediately and receive the player only in mid-year, when the European market is busier.

Russia’s window remains open until 19 February, unlike other countries. To try to unlock talks, Palmeiras have sent an emissary to Abu Dhabi, where Zenit are playing a friendly tournament.

Nino, 28, has been at Zenit since early 2024. He played on Tuesday and scored in a 2-1 victory over Dinamo Moscow.

He was sold by Fluminense for five million euros, about R$27 million at the time, after playing a key role in the 2023 Conmebol Libertadores win. Palmeiras aim to add a high-level partner for Gustavo Gómez, with Murilo, Bruno Fuchs and Benedetti also options.

Source: Globo.com