Memphis Depay aims to extend Corinthians contract as he recovers from injury

Dutch striker Memphis Depay has expressed a desire to remain with Brazilian club Corinthians beyond his current contract, which runs until June 2026. He is willing to discuss reduced wages and new terms, and has indicated openness to a salary cut to facilitate a renewal. Negotiations with a potential sponsor, Chinese electric‑car maker BYD, have stalled as the company shifted focus to naming rights for the Morumbi stadium.

Depay suffered a grade‑2 injury to his right thigh on 22 March during a clash with Flamengo, which was aggravated by an incorrectly performed exercise. The club’s medical staff now estimate an eight‑week recovery period, longer than the initially expected four‑to‑six weeks. Physical performance metrics remain below the targets set by Corinthians’ conditioning team, raising concerns about a heightened risk of re‑injury, especially on synthetic pitches.

Corinthians plan to ease Depay back into competition, targeting a lineup inclusion for the Libertadores match against Peñarol in Montevideo, rather than the upcoming domestic fixture against Botafogo. The player has acknowledged internal errors that delayed his rehab and confirmed that he is in the final stage of recovery, while the club continues to seek financial partners to support his salary.