Premier League giants circle as Corinthians brace for record sale | OneFootball

Yuri Alberto’s fine form for Corinthians has attracted intensifying Premier League interest, raising the possibility that the striker could exit the club in the upcoming European summer transfer window. While no official offer has yet been submitted to either Corinthians or agent André Cury, the expectation among club officials is that a proposal may soon materialize—potentially one too significant to reject, especially given the club’s financial reality.

Corinthians, already grappling with approximately R$2.5 billion in debt, acknowledge the difficulty of retaining their top scorer if a major European club makes a decisive move. Behind the scenes, the club is aware of Wolverhampton Wanderers’ particular interest. Wolves, managed by ex-Corinthians coach Vítor Pereira, are reportedly considering Yuri Alberto as a replacement for Matheus Cunha, who is expected to depart for Manchester United ahead of next season. Pereira, who previously coached Yuri Alberto during his 2022 arrival at Corinthians, is a strong advocate for the striker’s qualities.

Speculation suggests the Wolves could soon present an offer in the region of €35 million (about R$223 million). Since Corinthians hold a 50% stake in Yuri Alberto’s economic rights, the club would only receive half the transfer sum. This minority share further complicates their ability to fend off a lucrative proposal.

André Cury, the agent representing the player, recently revealed that Corinthians already turned down a €30 million offer before their No. 9 clinched a Paulista title and became the club’s leading scorer at Neo Química Arena. The player’s growing reputation has only increased his estimated market value. Still, Corinthians' leadership concedes that holding onto their star forward is unlikely if the numbers increase.

Yuri Alberto has recently been the club’s main attacking threat and remains popular with the supporters. His ongoing influence comes even as he was left out of Carlo Ancelotti’s first Brazil squad announcement, with the striker stating, “Unfortunately, I’m not on the pre-list, but I won’t stop working so I can be included in the next call-up.” Despite this international setback, his performances continue to turn heads in Europe.

Another layer to the negotiations is the legal dispute between the club and Cury, who is owed a significant sum by Corinthians, adding an extra challenge to the club’s efforts to keep their forward.

The impending transfer window poses a significant test for Corinthians, who must weigh the footballing value of their leading scorer against the harsh economic pressures that continue to shape their strategies both on and off the pitch.

Source: Globo