Zenit show interest in Corinthians right-back Matheuzinho, no bid yet | OneFootball

Zenit are interested in Corinthians right-back Matheuzinho, but no official offer has been made. According to Meu Timao, the 25-year-old remains under contract until 31 December 2028.

Talks could open after the World Cup, following earlier European enquiries this year. In 2025, Russia's transfer period ran from June to September, in line with major leagues, and Brazil's mid-year window began on 20 July.

In January, Corinthians turned down a 7 million euro proposal from a European club for Matheuzinho. The refusal reflected a board policy of pricing players based on the share of rights the club hold.

In February, football executive Marcelo Paz acknowledged the need to sell players mid-year due to finances. The 2026 budget targets R$ 151 million from transfers, plus FIFA solidarity and other federative mechanisms.

Matheuzinho joined in early 2024, when Corinthians paid 4 million euros to Flamengo for 60 percent of his economic rights. Flamengo retain 32 percent and Londrina hold 8 percent.

He became first choice at right-back after Fagner left on loan then permanently to Cruzeiro from 2025. He has made 135 appearances, scoring five goals with 10 assists, and lifted the Paulistão 2025, Copa do Brasil 2025 and Supercopa do Brasil 2026.

This season he faces competition from Pedro Milans, who arrived on a free after not renewing with Peñarol. Even so, Matheuzinho has played in 25 of 30 matches.

He is in contention for Fernando Diniz on Sunday, when Corinthians host São Paulo at 18:30 at Neo Química Arena in the 15th round of the Brasileirão.

Source: Meu Timao