Esporte Clube Vitória denies deal with Wagner Leonardo, Grêmio's defender. Fábio Mota, Vitória's president, said the club is not negotiating the player's return and wants to receive $2 million from Grêmio.

What happened?

Vitória tried to sign Wagner Leonardo before signing Brítez, but Grêmio did not release him and did not pay the debt.

Why does this matter for Esporte Clube Vitória?

The $2 million debt is related to Wagner Leonardo's sale to Grêmio in 2025. Vitória needs to receive this amount to close the accounts.

What comes next?

Fábio Mota said there are no updates on Wagner Leonardo's signing and that the club is focused on receiving the debt from Grêmio. Vitória has already signed Brítez and is working to strengthen the team.

Grêmio sold defender Viery to Fiorentina for 17 million euros and signed Wallace. Nikolas Mondadori is a correspondent for Itatiaia Esporte do Sul do Brasil.