'It's possible' - Neymar given hope of securing dream return to Barcelona as 'discussions' taking place with the Catalan giants over 'tantalising' summer transfer

Neymar joined Al-Hilal in the summer of 2023 after leaving Paris Saint-Germain in a big-money move. However, the Brazilian's struggles with injuries and fitness meant that Neymar parted ways with the Saudi Pro League champions last month and joined his boyhood club, Santos, in the Brazilian Serie A on a six-month deal until the end of the 2024/25 season.

While his return to Brazil has been heavily celebrated, Neymar has plans to be in top form for the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Mexico and Canada. As such, the winger is considering a move back to Europe for the season, and The Athletic's David Ornstein has revealed that Neymar's priority is to secure a return to Barcelona in the summer and that discussions between the Liga leaders and Neymar's agent have already taken place.

Speaking to The Athletic, when asked about forwards to monitor for the summer, Ornstein said: "If I’m to highlight one it would be Neymar.

"The remarkable situation currently being explored and prioritised is a return to Barcelona. Nothing has been decided but I’m told this would be his dream and discussions are taking place between the Catalan giants and his camp.

"Barcelona president Joan Laporta and Neymar’s representative Pini Zahavi have a close relationship and I think Zahavi also looks after Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick. Neymar’s big motivation will be the 2026 World Cup and playing at Barcelona, in the rebuilt Camp Nou, has fairytale potential. A lot would need to happen for this to materialise, but it’s possible and a tantalising prospect!"

Santos' contract with Neymar reportedly has the option to be terminated early if he chooses to join a club that will play in the Club World Cup in June. Ornstein added: "His return to Santos from Al Hilal was on a short-term contract so, unless an extension is signed, he’ll become a free agent on June 30 — although I hear there is also a mechanism that would allow him to leave sooner for teams competing in the Club World Cup.

"It will all depend on his condition — physical and technical. The early signs look good, but let’s see how he fares in the weeks and months ahead."