Zenit rejects Brazilian clubs in defender transfer negotiations

Russian club Zenit announced it will not negotiate the sale of defender Nino with any Brazilian team during this transfer window, limiting the player's return to Fluminense or Palmeiras. The decision also means a Spanish club is the only European side currently showing interest, although bureaucratic hurdles linked to EU sanctions on Russia complicate the move.

At the same time, Zenit has identified Flamengo centre‑back Léo Ortiz as a potential target, but any approach depends on the outcome of Nino’s situation. Flamengo, whose contract with Ortiz runs until December 2028, says there is no immediate plan to replace him and has not received a formal offer. Both clubs are monitoring developments closely as the window progresses.