Reports have surfaced on July 24, 2026, regarding the potential departure of 25-year-old forward Zaza from the Cypriot club Paphos FC. Spanish media outlets initially claimed that Real Sociedad had finalized a deal to acquire the Brazilian striker, suggesting that high-level officials from the La Liga club, Joaquin Aperribay and Roberto Olabe, were spotted at Paphos airport to conclude the negotiations.

However, subsequent reports from local sources, including sport-fm.com.cy, offer a more nuanced perspective. While confirming that there is concrete interest from Spain regarding the player, these sources state that it has not been officially confirmed that Real Sociedad is the specific club involved in the pursuit. Furthermore, the transfer is reportedly subject to specific conditions set by Paphos FC owner Sergey Lomakin.

The situation remains fluid as both the club and the player have yet to make an official announcement regarding a confirmed move. Interested parties are waiting for further clarification on whether the Spanish club is indeed Real Sociedad or another entity, as well as whether the financial and technical conditions required by the current leadership in Paphos can be met.