Grêmio adopts fiscal restraint for second half of 2026 amid transfer restructuring
Board outlines strategy to address right-back weakness and manage squad finances through targeted departures and bargain acquisitions.
Grêmio’s board has outlined a strategy of financial prudence for the second half of 2026, prioritising the avoidance of major spending in favour of bargain deals and player sales to raise cash. The club from Rio Grande do Sul is mapping out squad moves for the upcoming transfer window, which opens in more than a month, with the primary objective of stabilising finances after an investment of approximately R$100 million in the first half of the year.
The right-back position is identified as the team’s main tactical weakness under coach Luís Castro. Current specialists Marcos Rocha and João Pedro have lost playing time, prompting the coach to utilise forward Pavon as a makeshift option. To address this gap without significant expenditure, the board intends to generate revenue through the sale of key assets.
Midfielder Gabriel Mec and centre-back Viery are considered the primary candidates for sale. Both players are young starters, and their departure would necessitate finding replacements to maintain squad strength. Mec’s situation is particularly complex; he is on loan from Juventus until 30 June, and while there is mutual desire for a permanent deal, no agreement has been reached with the Italian club. Without a resolution, the tendency is for Mec to leave Porto Alegre.
In addition to Mec and Viery, the club plans to offload underutilised players to ease financial pressure. Names such as Dodi, Monsalve, João Pedro, and André Henrique are at the forefront of potential departures. Centre-back Kannemann has also seen limited playing time, but his status differs as he is regarded as a key leader behind the scenes, distinguishing him from other players facing the exit door.
The current caution follows a period of active recruitment in the first half of 2026, which saw six signings. These included financial investments in midfielders Leo Pérez and Nardoni, and forwards Tetê and Enamorado. The club also secured goalkeeper Weverton via contract termination and left-back Caio Paulista on loan, both previously with Palmeiras. The board’s shift towards fiscal restraint marks a distinct pivot from that earlier phase of expansion.
