Zamalek propose January compromise as direct contact re-established with Juan Bezerra

Zamalek have re established direct contact with Brazilian winger Juan Bezerra and his family, tabling a compromise proposal to resolve his ongoing pre season standoff, according to Egyptian broadcaster Ahmed Shobeir.

Read Also: Brazilian winger Juan Bezerra pushes for Shabab Al Ahli move as clubs clash over valuation

Direct contact and the "January Compromise"

Speaking on ON Sport FM, Shobeir detailed the latest developments following days of uncertainty regarding the Brazilian forward's absence from the club's pre season training camp in Cairo.

Zamalek officials reached out directly to Bezerra and his father, with senior teammate Omar Gaber also stepping in to open lines of communication.

To resolve the impasse, the White Knights' hierarchy proposed a structured compromise:

• The winger would return to Cairo immediately, honour his commitments on the pitch for the first half of the season
• The club would re evaluate his transfer options during the January window

"Zamalek told the player: 'Come here, we will negotiate, you play and work with the team until January and after that, matters will be resolved'" Shobeir revealed.

The broadcaster added that Bezerra gave verbal assurances agreeing to travel to Cairo, though Zamalek management remains cautious until the player physically arrives at the training ground.

Strong legal position and potential wage increase

Shobeir stressed that Zamalek retains complete contractual leverage should the dispute escalate legally.

"For the thousandth time, I say that Zamalek's legal position is very, very strong.. The club wants Bezerra to return to Cairo first and join the squad normally before discussing his long term future" Shobeir noted.

To bridge the gap and convince the player to commit fully for the upcoming months, Zamalek is also prepared to enhance Beserra's current financial terms.

"Zamalek is currently trying to facilitate his return and it is possible that his contract could be increased or his financial compensation improved.. There is no issue with doing so, the ultimate priority is that the player returns to Zamalek" Shobeir added.

Zamalek’s "January compromise" is a pragmatic de escalation strategy. After rejecting an initial $3 million bid from UAE side Shabab Al Ahli, the Cairo club faced the risk of keeping an unmotivated asset or entering a protracted contractual dispute.

By offering an immediate salary enhancement while leaving the door ajar for a winter transfer, Zamalek retains a key attacking player for their domestic and continental start while giving the player a clear pathway toward a future move.

What happens next?

Zamalek’s administrative team is working to arrange Bezerra’s travel logistics to Cairo over the coming days. Once the Brazilian reports to training, the board will meet with the player and his representatives to finalize any salary adjustments and integrate him into first team preparations ahead of the 2026 /27 season.

Khaled Hegazy |

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Journaliste sportif spécialisé dans la couverture du football et la création de contenu numérique, alliant expérience éditoriale et expertise des médias sociaux.

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