Corinthians seek partner to pay 100% of Memphis renewal costs | OneFootball

Corinthians are in talks with two companies to find a partner to cover 100% of Memphis Depay’s renewal, with the forward still sidelined.

Per Globo.com, the board say this year's plan has no funds for him from July, and his deal ends mid-year. Corinthians want a sponsor to cover salary and other payments, with president Osmar Stabile telling allies the club will not pay unless a company does. They also owe him R$ 42 million, which would require instalments and is not tied to any renewal.

In early talks, Memphis signalled he would accept a pay cut, though it is unclear if this covers salary or bonuses. His September 2024 deal includes bonuses on top of wages and a signing-on fee. The cost has drawn political criticism at Parque São Jorge, while the football department led by Marcelo Paz has defended him.

Memphis has been out since 22 March with a right thigh injury suffered against Flamengo, later aggravated by an error by Corinthians’ fitness staff. He will not face Peñarol. The third-round tie in the Conmebol Libertadores is on Thursday at 21:00, Brasília time, at Neo Química Arena, and there is still no return date.

Head coach Fernando Diniz said the staff are being cautious to avoid a setback, with the forward under physiotherapy supervision in twice-daily sessions and progressing well.

His 35 days out are already his longest absence at Corinthians. Since that Flamengo match he has missed eight games, also his highest total since joining.

Source: Globo.com