Arias and Nino frame off-field battle as Palmeiras meet Fluminense | OneFootball

Palmeiras face Fluminense in the Brasileirão on Wednesday, a meeting shaped by Jhon Arias, their costliest 2026 signing. The Colombian could make his first start against his former club.

According to Nosso Palestra, the build-up has been driven by Arias’ transfer and Palmeiras’ pursuit of Nino. Arias debuted on Saturday in the Paulista quarter-finals, coming on in a 4-0 win over Capivariano.

Fluminense held priority on any buyback and considered re-signing him when he reappeared on the Brazilian market amid Wolverhampton’s troubles. Arias initially leaned towards Fluminense, but Palmeiras offered the sporting and financial guarantees he wanted.

Palmeiras offered 25 million euros to the English club, a bid that was accepted. Fluminense had sold him for 17 million euros, potentially rising to 22 million with bonuses, and tried to respond but stopped at 20 million.

At Fluminense he starred in the 2023 Libertadores triumph, won a Carioca title and drove the 2025 Club World Cup semi-final run. At Wolverhampton he made 26 appearances in six months, scoring two with one assist. Eighteen days after being unveiled, he now meets his old side.

Nino remains the main defensive target for Abel Ferreira and the hierarchy, fitting the leadership profile, age and domestic know-how. On 17 January Palmeiras reached an agreement in principle on terms and signalled a four-year offer.

Zenit have not released him despite an envoy travelling to Abu Dhabi during pre-season, but there is optimism he could leave in the next window. Palmeiras v Fluminense, Brasileirão, 25/02, 21:30 Brasília time.

Source: Nosso Palestra