Corinthians rush paperwork to keep Dutch star Memphis Depay on field

Memphis Depay is on the verge of extending his contract with Brazilian side Corinthians, and the club is racing to complete the remaining bureaucratic steps so the Dutch forward can be available for Thursday night’s match. If everything proceeds, he could line up against Rosario Central in the Copa Libertadores round of 16.

Earlier this week the extension seemed certain, but Corinthians suddenly announced that the player and club would part ways due to what they described as excessive salary demands from the Dutch top scorer. The announcement caught Depay off guard, as he had believed a new deal was imminent. Both parties later reconvened and reached a fresh agreement.

Depay ultimately consented to a modest reduction in his wages, allowing the deal to be salvaged. The compromise meant he can remain at the Brazilian club for the remainder of the season.

Paperwork and registration hurdles

Despite the agreement, several administrative steps remain before Depay can take the field. He is already listed in the competition squad because he was under contract when the roster was submitted. However, his contract still needs to be entered into the Brazilian Football Confederation’s system and his name must appear in the official database. Only after that registration is confirmed can he be field‑eligible.

In addition, a new work visa is required; his previous visa expires on 22 August. Club officials say a replacement visa is already being processed.

Corinthians are pushing to resolve these matters quickly so Depay can feature in Thursday night’s Copa Libertadores round‑of‑16 clash with Rosario Central. The first leg in Argentina ended in a 0‑0 draw, heightening the importance of his availability.