Grêmio faces debt disputes with Cascavel and player settlements

Grêmio is facing scrutiny over unpaid debts within the Brazilian football landscape. Valdinei Silva, president of Cascavel, has publicly criticized Grêmio for an outstanding debt of approximately R$ 6.8 million. This amount stems from the 2023 sale of midfielder Bitello to a Russian club, where Cascavel held 30% of the player's economic rights.

While Grêmio previously paid R$ 10.6 million following a dispute resolution through the CBF, a second installment due in July 2024 remains unpaid. Cascavel has expressed concern regarding a collective creditor plan presented by Grêmio to the National Chamber of Dispute Resolution (CNRD), which includes 23 creditors and total debts exceeding R$ 15.9 million. Silva characterized the potential approval of such a plan as an ‘abuse of power against small clubs’.

In separate financial movements, Grêmio has settled overdue payments related to bonuses and signing fees for attacker Cristian Pavón, as well as outstanding amounts with his agent. The club is currently evaluating Pavón's contract renewal for 2027, though any new agreement would likely require the player to accept adjusted terms to align with the club's goal of reducing its total wage bill.