Brazilian midfielder Wendel has been the subject of transfer chatter around Zenit Saint Petersburg, with reports suggesting the club would permit him to leave if a formal request came from the player. At present, however, there are no official negotiations underway for a move to another club, and Zenit is said to be awaiting a concrete signal from the player while he remains in Brazil. The situation leaves Wendel’s future hanging in the balance as discussions continue to unfold in the background.
Speculation intensified on June 25 when journalist Gabriel Reis claimed that Wendel is keen on returning to Brazil to join Flamengo and is not entertaining any option that would see him returning to Russia. The reported reason centers on his preference for a different role on the field than the one Zenit’s coach Sergei Semak has outlined, coupled with broader concerns about playing conditions and life in the country. These factors seem to be influencing his willingness to explore a move away from Zenit, even as he contends with matters on the domestic front.
Earlier in the week, there were indications from Zenit that the club’s leadership expected Wendel to rejoin the squad for training soon. On June 23, statements from Zenit’s leadership suggested the Brazilian would be back with the team in the near term, signaling that despite the noise around a possible exit, the club viewed him as part of its plans for the upcoming period. The ambiguity around his status persisted as talks reportedly centered on timing and the logistics of his return to Russia.
Wendel has been with Zenit since the latter part of 2020, contributing to the squad in multiple competitions. In the most recent season, he appeared in 33 matches across all competitions, delivering nine goals and four assists. His ability to influence games with both goals and creative playmaking has kept him in the conversation among Zenit supporters and observers, even as questions about his optimal position and long-term fit remain a topic of discussion for the team’s coaching staff and management.
Earlier coverage also mentioned the broader transfer narrative surrounding players who have featured for Zenit in recent years. While some reports have linked Wendel with a move away from the club, others have framed the discussions as part of a larger assessment of squad needs and strategic direction. At this point, the picture remains fluid, with no official announcements confirming a transfer. The situation continues to be watched closely by fans and analysts alike as Zenit weighs its options heading into the coming season and Wendel contemplates his professional path and personal preferences.