Zenit Star Malcom and Move Rumors: Can a Saudi Offer Change the Course?
Former head coach of the Russian national team, Igor Korneev from St. Petersburg, believes Zenit should consider allowing Malcom to leave for a Saudi club if the deal is right. He notes the money involved could be compelling and points out that Malcom would have to weigh a substantial financial opportunity against his current commitments in Russia. The insight comes from a respected voice in Russian football, quoted by Sport Express as part of the ongoing discussion about the Brazilian winger’s future.
According to Korneev, the decision should hinge on whether the Arab club can secure a green light from Malcom and whether the financial package aligns with the player’s career goals. He adds that the Brazilian ace could hardly find a better chance to multiply his earnings compared with his present contract, depending on how the negotiations unfold. The idea of a high-profile move to Saudi Arabia is nothing new in football markets where players evaluate large upfront sums against long-term stability. The possibility remains that Malcom might explore this route if the terms suit him and if he receives the nod from his current club to depart. (Source: Sport Express)
On July 10, football manager Timur Gurtskaya publicly expressed interest in Malcom from the Saudi side, igniting renewed speculation about a potential transfer. Transfer market trackers place the player’s value at around €30 million, underscoring the strong demand and the premium often attached to players with Malcom’s experience and track record at the elite level. (Source: Transfermarkt)
Malcom joined Zenit in 2019 after a move from Barcelona, a chapter that significantly shaped his career. During his tenure with Zenit, he helped the club clinch multiple domestic titles, including four Russian Premier League crowns, a Russian Cup triumph, and three Russian Super Cups. His current contract with Zenit is set to run through the summer of 2027, a detail that would influence any prospective move and the negotiating dynamics between the player, Zenit, and any prospective buyer. (Source: Club records and press materials)
In the most recent Russian Premier League season, Malcom demonstrated his importance to Zenit with an impressive statistics package, featuring 27 appearances, 23 goals, and 7 assists. Such numbers reinforce why the Brazilian is viewed as a key asset and why any potential transfer would attract serious attention from clubs seeking a proven scorer and creative creator in one package. (Source: league statistics and club reporting)
There is always a layer of nuance in these talks. If Malcom were to move to Saudi Arabia, a non-participation in future Brazilian national team duties could be a factor discussed by agents and advisers. While this is a hypothetical scenario, it adds to the broader conversation about how players balance club ambitions, national team obligations, and the lure of high-paying leagues. The decision would not simply hinge on money; it would also consider playing time, competition level, and the player’s long-term career trajectory. (Source: industry commentary)
Ultimately, the situation remains fluid. Zenit’s stance, Malcom’s personal preferences, and the willingness of the Saudi club to meet or exceed the current valuation will determine whether the door stays open or closes on this chapter. Observers note that the next few weeks could prove decisive as negotiations unfold, with public statements likely giving way to private discussions that shape the next destination of a player who has already left a lasting mark on Russian football. (Source: ongoing reporting and market analysis)