Leeds United goalkeeper Lucas Perri is taking his former club Botafogo to court in Brazil, demanding R$2.8m (€400,000) in unpaid fees.
According to Ge Global, the 26-year-old filed the case in the 65th Labor Court of Rio de Janeiro last week, accusing Botafogo of failing to settle image rights, FGTS contributions (unemployment/severance fund), and outstanding severance pay.
The first hearing is set for November 5th, with both the player’s representatives and Botafogo’s legal team declining to comment at this stage.
For Leeds, who signed Perri this summer in a €16m deal from Lyon, the case is unlikely to affect his immediate availability. But it throws an unwanted spotlight onto their new No.1 — just weeks into his Premier League career.
The Case Against Botafogo
Perri was one of Botafogo’s standout players during his spell between 2022 and 2023, even earning a Brazil call-up — their first in four years. His camp now alleges that despite his performances, the club failed to honour full contractual obligations.
The lawsuit demands exactly R$2,834,964.68, a figure tied to employment law provisions in Brazil. If Botafogo are found guilty, the financial blow could be significant, especially after their recent investments in squad building.
Silence From Both Sides
So far, neither side is speaking publicly.
“The player’s defence team have so far refused to comment when contacted and Botafogo’s advisors are also declining to comment at this moment in time.” — Ge Global
That silence suggests negotiations may still be possible before the hearing. But with a court date locked in, the dispute has already spilled into the public domain.
Lucas Perri’s Career Path
| Club | Years | Apps |
|---|---|---|
| Botafogo | 2022–23 | — |
| Lyon | 2023–25 | — |
| Leeds United | 2025– | — |
source: transfermarkt – 6 September 2025
Perri’s rise from Botafogo to Lyon and now Leeds has been rapid. At Elland Road, he has been brought in as a long-term solution between the sticks after the club’s return to the Premier League.
Analyst Verdict
FootballPlace analyst John William:
Leeds won’t like the headlines, but this is a personal matter between player and former club. Perri’s quality is clear — his shot-stopping and command of the area have already impressed in pre-season.
If anything, this case highlights why European clubs sometimes hesitate to deal with Brazilian football finances. For Leeds, the focus must remain on keeping Perri settled while the legal process plays out thousands of miles away.
Key Insights
- Lucas Perri sues Botafogo for R$2.8m (€400k).
- Case filed in 65th Labor Court of Rio de Janeiro.
- Hearing date set for 5 November 2025.
- Claims involve image rights, FGTS, severance pay.
- Leeds signed Perri this summer from Lyon for €16m.
What’s Next
The November hearing will determine whether Botafogo must pay Perri the full amount. Settlements are possible before that date, but the case underlines the tension between players and clubs in Brazil’s labour courts.
For Leeds, the legal wrangle may be a distraction, but on the pitch, Perri is expected to start their next Premier League fixture. His ability to stay focused could be tested as the case develops.
Should Leeds be worried about Perri’s legal battle — or is this just noise off the pitch?
0 Comments
First read message
Leave a comment
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *