Brazilian midfielder Wendel, 28, was a recent target for Botafogo and Flamengo and has renewed his contract with Zenit. The agreement includes a condition that facilitates a future transfer, which is a reduced release clause of 25 million euros, effective starting next year. People working with the player are said to be in frequent conversation with Italian clubs, believing a move to a league with greater visibility could improve Wendel's chances with the Brazilian national team.
For the national team, he has been capped 12 times at U23 level, scoring one goal. This season in the Premier Liga, Wendel has made 15 appearances, scoring 1 goal and providing 3 assists. In November 2025, reports stated that Zenit demanded at least €20 million for the player, while a transfer to Botafogo for that same amount was reportedly in place in July 2025.
