Zenit St. Petersburg made agreement with Fluminense to sign team captain Nino.

26-year-old player joined Zenit on four-and-half-year contract (until the end of 2027/28 season).

Nino started at pro level with Criciuma from Brazilian Serie B. In 2019 he moved to Fluminense and played one year on loan before becoming full-time player. He won 2023 Copa Libertadores and participated at FIFA Club World Cup, where Flu trailed to Manchester City in final. He spent 239 matches with the team, scored 12 goals; periodically he had been wearing captain armband for three seasons.

At international level Nino won 2020 Olympics gold medal with Brazil, he played alongside Claudinho, current Zenit midfielder, and Malcom, former Zenit player. On 22 November 2023, defender made debut for main national team playing 45 minutes against Argentina in 2026 World Cup South America Qualifiers.

Nino is second winter signing for Zenit, as the first newcomer is another Brazilian Pedro, who was signed from Corinthians through priority buy-out option.