On February 27, 2025, Wanderson's transfer from Internacional to Cruzeiro was confirmed by Pedro Lourenço, owner of Cruzeiro. Lourenço stated, "Estamos negociando. Conversei pessoalmente com o presidente do Inter (Alessandro Barcellos). A gente tem uma dívida lá e, agora, faltam poucos detalhes. Ele (Wanderson) deve aparecer na Toca da Raposa logo," indicating the imminent conclusion of the negotiations. This transfer is particularly significant as it addresses the outstanding debt of approximately R$ 7 million owed by Internacional to Cruzeiro following their acquisition of Wesley.
Wanderson's departure is slated to alleviate some of the financial burden on Internacional, allowing them to clear debts and make room for other potential signings. According to sources, this move will also save the club around R$ 900,000 per month on salaries, which is quite substantial. At 30 years old, Wanderson has had some noteworthy moments during his time at Internacional, but his role diminished as new attacking options emerged under Coach Roger Machado.
Pedro Lourenço emphasized the financial and strategic framework of the deal, noting, "Estão faltando poucos detalhes. A gente está esperando que ele chegue na Toca," confirming as well the arrangements being finalized between the clubs. These arrangements include the possibility of integrating additional financial compensation or sending young talent from Cruzeiro to Internacional. While specific names of potential loaned players have not been finalized, the name Japa was mentioned, though there is reluctance to let him move.
The official transfer announcement follows months of discussions and reflects the complex nature of club financing and transfer negotiations in Brazilian football. It exemplifies how clubs are often forced to strategically manage their rosters and finances to maintain stability and competitiveness. For Internacional, the timing is particularly pressing, as they prepare for upcoming league matches.
Wanderson's performance statistics during his tenure with Internacional demonstrate his potential and effectiveness as a player. Since joining the club at the end of 2022, he has played 145 matches, scoring 21 goals and providing 19 assists. These numbers, coupled with his experience, make him a valuable asset for Cruzeiro as they seek to bolster their attacking options.
The player had been less involved recently, with only 9 appearances and one goal this season, illustrating the circumstances under which he is leaving. With his contract set to expire at the end of the year, Internacional's management saw the transfer as the best opportunity to mitigate future losses. This decision reflects broader market trends where clubs are balancing financial health with competitive ambitions.
Looking forward, both clubs aim to benefit from this transaction. Cruzeiro is expected to gain immediate reinforcement to their squad, fulfilling their need for more attacking depth. Meanwhile, Internacional will have greater flexibility within their wage structure and might pursue young talent to drive future success.
Wanderson’s departure from Internacional is viewed as more than just the loss of a player; it encapsulates the shifting dynamics of club football where financial reality often dictates personnel decisions. This scenario emphasizes the need for clubs to not only scout talent effectively but also manage their finances prudently to balance both short and long-term objectives.
The upcoming weeks will be telling as both clubs navigate the aftermath of this transfer and the potential it holds for reshaping their respective squads as they head toward the remainder of the season.