Gerson Set to Leave Flamengo for Zenit St Petersburg in €25m Transfer

Flamengo’s key midfielder Gerson is leaving the Brazilian club for Zenit St Petersburg. The Russian team triggered his €25 million release clause. The deal is done, and Gerson is expected to complete his medical and sign a five-year contract in the next two days.

According to a previous report, Flamengo‘s key players, including Gerson, are currently competing in the FIFA Club World Cup.

TRANSFER DETAILS AND FAREWELL

Gerson’s move follows tough negotiations. Zenit agreed to pay the full release clause upfront. Both Flamengo’s president and Zenit’s leadership confirmed the agreement. Gerson asked to finalize the transfer after Flamengo’s role in the FIFA Club World Cup, out of respect for the club. His last match might be against Bayern Munich in the round-of-16, depending on the team’s progress. Gerson will earn three times his wages at Zenit, a big reason for his move to Russia.

IMPACT ON FLAMENGO AND GERSON’S LEGACY

Gerson has been crucial for Flamengo since his return from Marseille in January 2023. In his second term, he played more than 200 matches, scored 15 goals, made 28 assists, and helped the team win several titles, including back-to-back Carioca championships, the 2024 Copa do Brasil, and the 2025 Supercopa do Brasil. His leadership on and off the field and involvement in the national team solidified his status as a club icon. But, his imminent departure has split fans. Some criticize the financially driven move, while others appreciate his service and urge support during his final matches.

WHAT COMES NEXT FOR FLAMENGO AND ZENIT

Presently, Flamengo is involved in the FIFA Club World Cup and is set to face Bayern Munich in Miami. Their important domestic fixtures will resume soon, testing the squad’s depth after Gerson’s departure. The transfer money is anticipated to boost the team for the remaining season. Zenit, on the other hand, plans to quickly incorporate Gerson into their squad, maintaining their practice of hiring top Brazilian talent. Zenit boasts a solid Brazilian connection with six Brazilians already in their squad and a tradition of significant contributions from players like Hulk and Malcom. Gerson is expected to play a major role as Zenit aims to reclaim the Russian Premier League title, after having lost it last year to Krasnodar by 1 point.

Flamengo won 3-1 against Chelsea in the FIFA Club World Cup and currently leads Group D with six points from two matches, highlighting their strong performance in the tournament.