Neymar’s agent has reportedly been in discussions with both Barcelona and Bayern Munich as the Brazilian forward considers a return to European football this summer. The 33-year-old attacker, currently playing for Santos, is looking for another shot at the big leagues after his injury-plagued time in Saudi Arabia.
The Brazilian forward struggled with injuries after moving to Al-Hilal in 2023, making just seven appearances for the Saudi Pro League side before returning to his boyhood club Santos in the winter transfer window. Since his return, Neymar has played as many games for the Brazilian outfit as he did for Al-Hilal, showing signs of his old form.
In the Campeonato Paulista, Neymar has contributed significantly, scoring three goals and assisting three more in just seven appearances. His short-term contract with Santos expires at the end of June, fueling speculation that he is using his time in Brazil as an opportunity to showcase himself for a potential European move.
Spanish outlet Sport reports that Neymar’s representative, Pini Zahavi, has been in contact with both Barcelona and Bayern Munich regarding a summer transfer. Neymar previously thrived at Barcelona alongside Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez, winning the Champions League in 2015.
Barcelona manager Hansi Flick was recently asked about Neymar’s potential return, and reports suggest the club’s president, Joan Laporta, maintains a good relationship with Zahavi. Neymar is also reportedly willing to accept a lower salary to facilitate the move, but Barcelona would still need to offload players to make the transfer feasible.
Bayern Munich has also emerged as a possible destination for Neymar, with the German giants potentially losing Leroy Sane, whose contract expires at the end of the season. With Vincent Kompany looking to reshape his squad, a space could open up for Neymar in the Bundesliga.
Despite growing speculation about a European return, Santos president Marcelo Teixeira remains hopeful Neymar will stay with the club until the 2026 World Cup. Teixeira recently stated that the club’s financial success has improved since Neymar’s return, and discussions about a contract extension are expected.
Neymar’s ambitions to feature in the 2026 World Cup received a boost after he was called up for Brazil’s upcoming qualifiers against Colombia and Argentina. With 128 caps and 79 goals for the national team, Neymar remains a crucial figure for the Selecao, despite not playing for Brazil since October 2023.