Zenit is preparing for a summer transition as midfielder Wendel is expected to leave the club. The news was shared by journalist Julio Miguel Neto on social media, signaling the start of a new chapter for the Brazilian talent.
Sources indicate that Zenit is not looking to part with fellow Brazilian Claudinho, and the club is not currently engaging in negotiations with other teams regarding his transfer. The stance underscores Zenit’s intention to maintain core pieces while exploring other market options for players on the move.
During pre-season in Brazil, the 25-year-old Wendel did not rejoin Zenit at their training base. With his absence, Zenit conducted two matches in the PARI Premier Cup as part of their warmup schedule. Manager Sergei Semak confirmed that the squad allowed Wendel to pursue opportunities with a favored destination, signaling a clear willingness to let the player seek a new club if a suitable agreement emerged.
Wendel has been with Zenit since the fall of 2020. In the previous campaign, he appeared in 33 matches across all competitions for the club, contributing nine goals and four assists, numbers that highlight his impact during a demanding season and his versatility in attack and midfield roles.
On June 25, Gabriel Reis reported that Wendel would prefer to join Flamengo and is not considering a return to Russia, a stance that aligns with recent developments in his career plans and personal ambitions. The situation places Flamengo on the list of potential destinations that could match the player’s aspirations and playing style, while also influencing Zenit’s strategic planning for the next season.
Formerly Dmitry Chistyakov weighed in, indicating there is no reason to view Wendel’s possible departure as a problem for the club. His perspective suggests that Zenit remains confident in managing the transition smoothly should the Brazilian midfielder seal a deal elsewhere, with the organization ready to pursue alternatives to reinforce the squad as needed.