Part 2/9:
Initially, it seemed that Palmeiras had successfully reached an agreement to sign Claudinho from Zenit for a significant sum of 17 million euros, roughly 100 million reais. However, just as the final details were about to be hammered out, things took an unexpected turn. Claudinho and his representatives suddenly shifted their stance, expressing a desire for more favorable terms. This last-minute change left Palmeiras president Leila Pereira visibly upset, prompting a strong reaction where she stated, “Only those who want to play for Palmeiras will join our club.” This statement echoed the sentiment that such negotiations should be taken seriously, and if a player is not fully committed, they are better off elsewhere.