Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet is poised to make a transformative move, with club president Željko Drčelić on the verge of securing the rights to star forward Filip Petrusev from Olympiacos Piraeus. According to Mozzart Sport, Zvezda is close to finalizing this blockbuster deal, and BuzzSport sources report that Petrusev is set to sign a multiyear contract worth €1.6 million per season, featuring an NBA clause to keep his league ambitions alive.
Petrusev, currently on loan from Olympiacos for the 2024-25 EuroLeague season, has been a dominant force for Zvezda, averaging 14.1 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 1.7 assists per game. His electrifying 30-point, 5-rebound performance in a Play-In loss to Bayern Munich underscored his potential as a franchise cornerstone. The 24-year-old Serbian big man, who played three NBA games with the Philadelphia 76ers and Sacramento Kings, has voiced his desire to return to the NBA “as soon as possible” while remaining open to a long-term stay with Zvezda, stating, “Why not?” when asked about next season.
The deal, a top priority for Zvezda, would see the club buy out Petrusev’s rights from Olympiacos, ensuring he remains in Belgrade beyond his loan. According to BuzzSport sources, the €1.6 million-per-season multiyear contract reflects Zvezda’s commitment to building around Petrusev’s versatile skill set. The inclusion of an NBA clause offers flexibility, allowing Petrusev to pursue NBA opportunities while anchoring Zvezda’s frontline. This strategic move signals Zvezda’s ambition to surpass their 10th-place EuroLeague finish and push for deeper playoff runs in 2025-26.
