Cruzeiro initiated advanced contacts with Zenit to sign midfielder Gerson, aged 28, who played for Flamengo until July this year. The operation gained momentum with the arrival of coach Tite at the Minas Gerais club, who already managed the player at Rubro-Negro and the Brazilian national team. Negotiations involve financial values and the possible inclusion of defender Jonathan Jesus as part of the agreement.
Gerson expressed interest in returning to Brasil to work with Tite again. The midfielder has played few games for Zenit since his transfer, valued at 25 million euros.
- Zenit signaled an opening to release the athlete.
- The Russian club seeks to recover part of the investment made a few months ago.
Relationship between Tite and Gerson
Tite maintains high admiration for Gerson since their joint spell at Flamengo, between 2023 and 2024. During this period, the midfielder served as captain on several occasions and contributed to important achievements. The presence of the coach at Cruzeiro serves as a decisive factor in convincing the player to accept the proposal.
The midfielder was also called up by Tite for the Brazilian team in 2021. Ele participated in four games in the Eliminatórias for the Copa of the
Zenit requirements in negotiation
Zenit established clear conditions to advance the transfer of Gerson. The Russian club is asking for around 15 million euros in financial compensation. Além also insists on the inclusion of defender Jonathan Jesus, aged 21, in the deal.
Previously, the Russians presented separate proposals for the Cruzeiro defender, which were rejected by the Minas Gerais board. The combined operation could balance total amounts close to the 25 million euros initially invested.
Cruzeiro internally debates the release of Jonathan Jesus. The young man has a contract until 2029 and is seen as a promise in the squad.
Operation financial details
Cruzeiro demonstrates willingness to invest up to 12 million euros directly through Gerson. Including Jonathan Jesus would reduce the cash outlay. Essa structure would meet the logic of Zenit to recover the amount paid to Flamengo.
The parties have been adjusting contractual details in recent weeks. The celestial board assesses the impact of the defender’s possible departure on the defensive sector.
Recent trajectory of Gerson
Gerson left Flamengo after a second successful spell at the Rio club. Ele accumulated 144 appearances, with 12 goals and 24 assists. The midfielder won titles such as Campeonatos Cariocas, Copa from Brasil and Supercopa from Brasil.
In Zenit, the player faced an adaptation period. Ele played 12 games and scored one goal in the Russian season.
Previous interest in the Cruzeiro defender
Zenit has been monitoring Jonathan Jesus for weeks due to the defender’s potential. The young man arrived at Cruzeiro from Ceará and alternated between starting and reserve in 2025. Sua height and reading of the game make him stand out in the European market.
The Minas Gerais board resists initial offers below 12 million euros for the defender. Qualquer inclusion in the exchange for Gerson depends on additional compensation.
Perspectives for the celestial cast
The arrival of Gerson would reinforce the Cruzeiro midfield for 2026. The midfielder would fit the profile of heavy names sought by the SAF. Tite actively participates in decisions about casting.
Negotiations continue at a cautious pace. Atualizações should occur in the next few weeks of the transfer market.