Netherlands forward Memphis Depay has agreed to take a significant pay cut to remain at Brazilian club Corinthians until 2028, days after the club initially decided against extending his contract because of financial concerns.

The 32-year-old had accused Corinthians of "unacceptable behaviour" after the club withdrew a previously agreed contract extension. However, after negotiations with club president Osmar Stabile, Depay agreed to reduce his financial demands to help Corinthians manage its finances.

According to ESPN Brasil, Depay has agreed to waive about R$21 million (£2.9 million) from the R$75 million (£10.6 million) the club owes him. Under the new two-year agreement, the remaining R$54 million (£7.6 million) will be paid in four instalments beginning in January 2027. The total value of the new deal is reportedly R$135 million (£19.1 million).

Stabile said Depay made the reduction because he wanted to remain at Corinthians and recognised the club's financial difficulties.

Depay has scored 20 goals in 79 appearances for Corinthians and helped the club win the Copa do Brasil in 2025 and the Supercopa do Brasil in 2026. Corinthians are currently ninth in Brazil's Serie A.

The former Manchester United forward is also the Netherlands' all-time leading scorer, although he failed to score in three appearances as the Dutch were eliminated in the last 32 of the 2026 World Cup.

Photo: Telegraaf