Memphis Depay speeds up return as contract renewal with Corinthians nears

Dutch striker Memphis Depay is accelerating his comeback to the Corinthians first‑team while finalising a new contract. He hopes to feature for a few minutes against Internacional in the Copa do Brasil round‑of‑16 on 6 August and to be fully fit for the Libertadores tie with Rosario Central on 13 August. After a fortnight of individual training in Spain, Depay has resumed club workouts and posted photos wearing a Barcelona shirt.

Negotiations have broken a stalemate: the 32‑year‑old agreed to cut his monthly salary to about R$ 2 million, forego former benefits and help settle the club’s R$ 40 million debt to him in four installments. Corinthians will cover his medical examinations and will also allocate a share of marketing and sponsorship revenues linked to his image. The player’s legal team is reviewing the contract draft before signing.

Depay’s return is contingent on completing the medicals, after which he aims to regain match rhythm and contribute to Corinthians’ domestic and continental campaigns.