SÃO PAULO – Corinthians are in negotiations to sign Zakaria Labyad, a midfielder currently playing in China, who previously played alongside Memphis Depay at PSV Eindhoven. The potential arrival of Labyad comes as Depay himself explores options away from the Brazilian club, less than a year after his high-profile move.
According to sources, Labyad was offered to Corinthians and has been approved by manager Dorival Júnior and his coaching staff. The 32-year-old’s potential contract would run through the end of the year, providing immediate reinforcement for a team currently sitting 17th in Série A.
The interest in Labyad surfaced as Depay’s future at Corinthians became increasingly uncertain. Signed as a free agent in September 2024 following his departure from Atlético Madrid, Depay arrived with considerable expectations. However, a reported breakdown in the relationship between the player and the club, coupled with financial disputes, has fueled speculation about a swift exit.
Reports indicate Depay skipped training last year due to unpaid bonuses, with Corinthians owing him approximately £625,000. Further payments of £1.25m were anticipated in September 2025. Despite these issues, Corinthians reportedly attempted to extend Depay’s contract, which is set to expire in July, but the Dutch striker is now seeking a “new challenge.”
Several clubs from the Middle East, including Shabab Al-Ahli and Al-Wasl, have reportedly expressed interest in acquiring Depay. The forward’s desire to leave Brazil is driven, in part, by a desire to remain eligible for the Netherlands national team.
Netherlands manager Ronald Koeman has indicated that Depay’s move to Brazil wouldn’t necessarily preclude him from future international selection, unlike the situation with Steven Bergwijn’s transfer to the Saudi Pro League. Koeman stated, “The level of the league in Brazil is different, so yes, he can still be part of the national team, but it depends on his fitness and if he reaches his level.”
Depay’s arrival at Corinthians was initially seen as a coup for the Brazilian club, bringing in a player with experience at top European clubs like PSV Eindhoven, Lyon, Manchester United, Barcelona and Atlético Madrid. He quickly made history for the Dutch national team in September 2024, surpassing Robin van Persie as the all-time leading scorer with 51 goals.
However, the situation has deteriorated rapidly. The financial disagreements and apparent lack of a strong working relationship have created an untenable situation for both parties. Corinthians, struggling in the Série A standings, are now faced with the prospect of losing a key player less than a year after his arrival.
The potential signing of Labyad, a player familiar to Depay from their time together at PSV, could be seen as a move to soften the blow of Depay’s departure and provide a creative spark to a struggling Corinthians side. Labyad brings experience and a proven track record, although his recent stint in China represents a step down from the top European leagues.
Corinthians football executive Fabinho Soldado has acknowledged the possibility of Depay’s transfer this summer, while also leaving the door open for a contract renewal. However, given the current circumstances, a departure appears increasingly likely.
The unfolding situation highlights the challenges of attracting and retaining high-profile players in Brazilian football, particularly when financial stability and club management are concerns. Depay’s potential exit serves as a cautionary tale for Corinthians and a reminder of the complexities involved in building a competitive team in South America’s largest football market.
As of , negotiations with Labyad are ongoing, and the club is carefully considering the potential repercussions of Depay’s departure. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining the future of both players and the direction of Corinthians’ season.
