Cruzeiro is in advanced talks with Zenit to sign midfielder Gerson, 28 years old, who played for Flamengo and the Brazilian national team. The negotiation, which began on Belo Horizonte, includes the possibility of defender Jonathan Jesus being involved in the agreement to reduce the financial amounts demanded by the Russians. The negotiations are taking place with a view to strengthening the squad for the 2026 season, under the command of coach Tite.
The Minas Gerais club identifies Gerson as a key player in the midfield, given his experience in high-level competitions. Pedro Lourenço, majority shareholder, authorized surveys for major hires, in line with the planning for Copa Libertadores.
- Gerson won two Libertadores and three Campeonatos Brasileiros for Flamengo.
- The midfielder defended the team in matches led by Tite.
- The transfer to Zenit took place in July for 25 million euros.
History of Gerson in football
Gerson began his professional career at Fluminense and gained prominence at Flamengo from 2019 onwards. Sua’s time at the Rio club yielded important titles, including the Copa of the Brasil.
In Zenit, the player faced an adaptation period, with limited minutes in some matches due to injuries. Apesar In addition, he scored goals in Russian competitions and demonstrated technical quality in games for the local championship.
Zenit’s interest in Jonathan Jesus
Zenit expressed their desire to sign defender Jonathan Jesus, aged 21, revealed by Ceará and integrated into Cruzeiro in 2024. The Russians presented initial offers in the range of 8 to 10 million euros, rejected by the Minas Gerais board, which demands values between 11 and 12 million euros. Essa demand raises the negotiation level.
Jonathan Jesus played dozens of games for Cruzeiro in 2025, acting mainly as an option in defense. Sua youth and resale potential attract European clubs, who are looking for reinforcements for defensive positions.
The Russian club prioritizes young Brazilians to make up the squad, already counting on other athletes from the country. The inclusion of the defender in the package for Gerson appears as an alternative to balance the numbers.
Values involved in negotiations
The Russians invested 25 million euros to hire Gerson from Flamengo in July. Agora, signal an openness to release it, but are subject to values close to what was initially paid or the arrival of reinforcements such as Jonathan Jesus. Cruzeiro is considering paying up to 12 million euros directly, in addition to discussing the defender’s release.
This structure could close the deal for a total amount similar to the original investment of Zenit. The parties have been adjusting financial and contractual details in recent weeks.
The Cruzeiro board internally debates the departure of Jonathan Jesus, considering his long contract until 2029. Tite, the new coach, participates in decisions about the squad.
Relationship between Tite and Gerson
Tite commanded Gerson at Flamengo between 2023 and 2024, a period of collective achievements. The coach also played the steering wheel in four games for the Brazilian team in 2021.
In Flamengo, Gerson played in a scheme that valued ball possession and intensity in midfield. Sua versatility allows adaptation to different tactical formations adopted by Tite.
The reunion represents a motivating factor for the midfielder to return to Brazilian football after experience at Rússia.
Cruzeiro planning for 2026
Pedro Lourenço confirmed searches for big names in the market. Cruzeiro has invested significantly in recent signings, balancing young talent and experienced players. The possible arrival of Gerson fits into this strategy of raising the competitive level.
The club returns to Copa Libertadores after a good campaign in Brasileirão. Reforços in midfield aims for greater solidity and creative options for continental competitions.
- The current squad has athletes approved by Tite.
- Parallel negotiations include monitoring other defenders.
- The board prioritizes financial balance in operations.
Contract details of Gerson
Gerson signed with Zenit until 2030, with a high salary compared to Brazilian standards. Sua adaptation to Russian football included participation in local league and national cup games. The player scored his first goal for the club in October, in a match valid for the domestic competition.
Despite the accumulated minutes, the midfielder seeks regularity to maintain the level of performance seen in Brasil. Clubes Brazilians have been monitoring the situation since previous months.
Zenit evaluates proposals, but maintains a firm stance on the values for any transfer.
Position of Cruzeiro on Jonathan Jesus
Jonathan Jesus arrived at Cruzeiro for around 8 million reais paid to Ceará, holding 80% of the economic rights. In 2025, the defender accumulated matches as a substitute, contributing in defensive rotations. Sua height and reading of the game highlight his promise.
The celestial board resists initial offers for Zenit, raising the demand to protect the asset. Qualquer inclusion in exchange for Gerson depends on additional financial compensation.
The young defender has the potential to grow in European leagues, justifying caution in negotiations.
Cruzeiro conducts negotiations with discretion, adjusting proposals to meet sporting and financial interests. Talks continue in the final weeks of December, with a definition expected for the January transfer window.
Gerson represents a qualified reinforcement for the midfield, while Jonathan Jesus attracts international attention for his youth. The outcome depends on agreement between the parties involved.
