In a significant legal development this week, midfielder Éderson, currently playing for Atalanta and the Brazilian national team, alongside his agent, André Cury, has filed a lawsuit against the Corinthians football club. The lawsuit, filed on March 25, 2025, demands approximately R$ 3.7 million for an unpaid portion of Éderson's transfer fee from his sale to Salernitana in January 2021.
The legal action surfaced after claims that the Corinthians failed to fulfill their financial obligations related to Éderson’s transfer agreement. Under the terms established when Éderson signed with Corinthians in 2020, he was entitled to receive 30% of any future transfer fees from his sale, yet this amount was reportedly not paid after he moved to the Italian club Salernitana for a transfer fee of €6.5 million (approximately R$ 39 million at that time).
Documents obtained by ESPN indicate that during the negotiations for Éderson's contract with Corinthians, it was explicitly agreed that he would receive this percentage from any future transfer deal. However, allegations have emerged that Corinthians did not deposit the expected R$ 3.1 million, which accounts for the 30% share owed to Éderson.
Éderson and Cury's lawsuit details that this retention of funds has caused significant concern, with their representatives arguing that it constitutes illicit enrichment and misappropriation, which are serious breaches of contract and trust.
In the filed claim, they are demanding that Corinthians pay R$ 3,676,284.10. This figure comprises the base amount of R$ 3.1 million along with interest calculated at a rate of 1% per month, based on the time the payments were due.
The situation also sheds light on the broader issues regarding contractual obligations within sports management and the consequences of failing to uphold these agreements. It's not uncommon for disputes to arise over transfer fees and commissions in professional soccer, but the intense scrutiny that comes with high-profile players like Éderson can amplify the stakes involved.
As legal proceedings commence, the team at the São Paulo Court of Justice, led by Judge Camila Rodrigues Borges de Azevedo, is set to review the evidence presented by both parties. Corinthians has been officially notified of the lawsuit and has 15 business days to respond to the claims made against them.
In their defense, Éderson and Cury reportedly have multiple email exchanges with Roberto Gaviolli, the financial director of Corinthians at the time, which detail ongoing discussions regarding the deposit of funds owed. These communications are crucial to establishing the foundation of their claims and highlight the attempts made to resolve this matter amicably before escalating it legally.
Should the situation remain unresolved, legal experts note that the ramifications could extend beyond just financial penalties for Corinthians. The club may face reputational damage, not only affecting its current operations but also potentially influencing future player negotiations and marketability.
This high-stakes saga reflects the intersection of sports and law, illustrating how vital it is for both players and clubs to adhere to contractual agreements fully. As the case unfolds, all eyes will be on the response from Corinthians and how effectively they can refute or resolve these accusations. The outcome may very well set a precedent in player transfer agreements, playing a pivotal role in shaping relationships between clubs and their players in the Brazilian football landscape.
The coming weeks will be telling as both sides prepare for the next steps in court, and observers will be keenly awaiting what is sure to be a closely watched case not only affecting Éderson's future but also the operational integrity of Corinthians.
