Wesley Chooses Roma Over Zenit as Transfer Talks Enter Final Stage

Brazilian right-back Wesley rejected a move to Zenit St Petersburg, making his preference to join AS Roma clear. He has agreed personal terms with the Italian side, as Roma and Flamengo continue to negotiate the details of the transfer.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Wesley, who plays for Flamengo, turned down a proposal from Russian club Zenit to focus on securing a move to Roma, and he has agreed in principle to a five-year contract in Rome. The deal now depends on the two clubs finding an agreement on the structure and fee of the transfer. Roma have offered around €25 million, a figure still below Flamengo’s asking price of €30 million. The negotiations include the possibility of a loan with obligation to buy, to help the Giallorossi manage financial fair play regulations while offering Flamengo a guaranteed sale in the near future. Wesley’s decision was influenced by new Roma coach Gian Piero Gasperini, who considers him a crucial part of his plans for next season.

SIGNIFICANCE FOR ROMA AND FLAMENGO

Roma finished fifth in Serie A last season, just outside the Champions League spots and 13 points behind champions Napoli.

A previous report confirmed that AS Roma finished fifth in Serie A last season.

They are looking to add reinforcements to push them up the table, and Gasperini has prioritised Wesley to strengthen the right flank. Wesley, whose Flamengo contract runs until December 2028, was close to a move to Atalanta last year before staying in Brazil. For Flamengo, losing a young international will be a sporting blow but it could bring in crucial funds as they continue their push towards the top in the Brasileiro.

WHAT’S NEXT IN THE TRANSFER?

Roma and Flamengo will continue discussions in the coming days to reach an agreement, with optimism that Wesley’s clear preference for the Giallorossi can help bridge the gap in valuations. Once completed, he will become a key addition to a Roma side hoping to close the gap to the top in Serie A. The Giallorossi’s next match is a high-profile pre-season friendly as they prepare for the new campaign, while Flamengo are battling for top positions in Brazil. Wesley is expected to link up with Gasperini’s squad as soon as the transfer is finalised.