It appears we have a done deal. Wolves are now handling the final paperwork stage of Jhon Arias’ exit, after the player signed a pre-contract with Palmeiras.
According to Globo Esporte, Arias signed the pre-contract on Thursday afternoon. As a result, Palmeiras secured the player’s side of the agreement while the clubs move to complete the remaining documentation. This step is common in high-value transfers and helps avoid late uncertainty.
Meanwhile, Palmeiras have entered the final phase of exchanging documents with Wolves. Once the signatures are in place, the Brazilian club expect to make the deal official.
Journalist explains Palmeiras’ financial position
Brazilian journalist André Rizek offered a wider reading of the deal and the market around it. “I only see things done right here,” he said. “Palmeiras’ diagnosis is accurate, and the offers they make are within the club’s reality.”
In addition, Rizek pointed to Palmeiras’ long-term transfer strategy. “From the 2021-22 window onwards, Palmeiras lead the league ranking with a transfer surplus of €161.7m,” he explained. “That shows how well they sell their players. Everything is under control there.”
Fluminense step back, Flamengo make Wolves move
Jhon Arias whilst at Fluminense
Jhon Arias whilst at Fluminense
Rizek also addressed Fluminense’s decision to withdraw. “As painful as it may be for Fluminense to see an idol strengthen a rival, it is not their financial reality today to bring Arias back,” he said. “They sold him for €17m, and it makes no sense to re-sign him for €25m.”
However, the market did not stay quiet. He revealed Flamengo also entered the conversation. “Flamengo did try to get involved in the final moments and offered €22m,” Rizek said. “But my information is that Arias would not accept playing for Flamengo. In these cases, clubs often move to inflate the market and push rivals to spend more. That is part of the game.”
Therefore, Rizek framed the outcome as logical for all sides. “Palmeiras spend what they can afford. Fluminense step back from what they cannot afford. Flamengo try to push the price,” he said. “I only see correct decisions.” He added that Arias’ arrival leaves Palmeiras very strong, and competing for everything.
The whole situation now looks close to resolution. With the player already tied up via a pre-contract and the clubs finalising documents, Arias’ departure appears to be a matter of timing rather than negotiation, with an announcement expected once the formalities are completed.