Danilo’s Transfer Saga: Italian Clubs and Flamengo Eye Brazil’s Botafogo Midfielder

Brazilian midfielder Danilo, who recently joined Botafogo from Nottingham Forest, is attracting significant interest from European clubs as the mid-year transfer window approaches. According to reports, two Italian clubs have entered the race to sign the 24-year-old defensive midfielder, who has also been called up to the Brazilian national team.

Danilo’s Rise at Botafogo and Market Interest

Danilo completed a £21.7 million move to Botafogo in July 2025 after spending two and a half seasons with Nottingham Forest in the Premier League. His transfer to the Brazilian club came after a failed summer deal with Lyon, which was derailed by the French side’s financial uncertainties. Since arriving at Botafogo, Danilo has regained form, earning a place in Brazil’s latest national team squad and becoming a key player for the Rio de Janeiro-based club.

His strong performances have not gone unnoticed. According to FogãoNET, two Italian clubs are now monitoring Danilo’s situation, adding to an already crowded list of suitors. Earlier reports from ge indicated that Fulham, Zenit Saint Petersburg, and Palmeiras had also expressed official interest in the midfielder, with transfer fees reportedly ranging between €25 million and €30 million.

Financial Pressures and Transfer Speculation

Botafogo’s financial situation may force the club to consider offers for Danilo, despite his importance to the team. The club reportedly still owes Nottingham Forest €20 million from his original transfer, which could influence their willingness to negotiate. ge reported that while Palmeiras and Zenit have made concrete inquiries, a move to Flamengo—Botafogo’s fierce rival—remains unlikely due to the competitive tensions between the two clubs.

Danilo’s contract with Botafogo runs until 2029, giving the club leverage in negotiations. However, his representatives previously threatened to terminate his deal unilaterally due to delayed image rights payments, signaling potential friction behind the scenes. If a suitable offer materializes, Botafogo may be compelled to cash in on their star midfielder during the upcoming transfer window.

What’s Next for Danilo?

With the Copa América set to take place in June and July, Danilo’s immediate focus will likely remain on representing Brazil. However, the mid-year transfer window, which opens in July, could see him secure a move to Europe if the right offer arrives. Fulham, in particular, have been linked with a structured deal worth up to €30 million, including performance-related bonuses.

For now, Danilo remains a key figure for Botafogo, but the club’s financial realities and the player’s ambitions could lead to an exit. If he departs, it would mark another chapter in his eventful career, which has already seen him play in Brazil, England, and now potentially Italy or another top European league.