Lionel Messi reunion in MLS & reforming MSN at Inter Miami one of two options for Neymar as Brazilian superstar struggles to generate interest

Neymar returned to his roots at Santos back in January. Having endured injury issues with club and country, the legendary playmaker was released as a free agent by Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal. The 33-year-old opted to head home at that stage.

Things have not played out as planned for Neymar in familiar surroundings, with Santos becoming embroiled in a relegation battle. They have not been able to call upon their talismanic No.10 as often as they would like, with more fitness issues holding Neymar back - who is currently sidelined with a hamstring problem.

Brazil’s all-time leading goalscorer is hoping to grace next summer’s World Cup finals in the United States, Canada and Mexico. According to Spanish news outlet SPORT, the South American icon “would like to find, in the next transfer window, an attractive sporting destination that would bring him back into the media spotlight”. Such a switch would help him to convince Selecao boss Carlo Ancelotti of his worth.

Neymar is, however, reportedly struggling to drum up interest. It is claimed that “doors to European football are currently closed to him”. The ex-Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain forward is being forced to begrudgingly accept that he is unlikely to head down that path again.

It is suggested that teams in Europe are being put off by Neymar’s ongoing injury struggles, which continue to limit the amount of time that he spends on the field. He is considered by some to be on a “downward spiral”, with “worrying decline” being endured by one of the most naturally gifted players to ever lace up a pair of boots.

Neymar is said to be living a “never-ending tragedy” after failing to rediscover his spark on the back of an unfortunate ACL injury that brought his time in the Middle East to a close. With certain avenues being shut off to him, just two are now said to remain open.

One of those is to sign another contract extension at Santos, with a six-month offer said to be on the table. The other is to spread his wings and head to the U.S. Neymar is said to have “always been drawn to the idea” of heading to MLS, “both for the lifestyle and the proximity to the world of celebrity and show business”.

The presence of close friend Messi at Inter Miami would also be a big draw, with the Argentine GOAT having committed to a new three-year contract in South Florida. Veteran striker Luis Suarez is also part of the Herons’ squad for now.

Neymar has previously said of working with former Camp Nou colleagues again: “Obviously, playing again with Messi and Suarez would be incredible. They are my friends. We still speak to each other. It would be interesting to revive this trio.”

Inter Miami have previously left the door open to Neymar, with David Beckham and the club’s ownership team forever in the market for marquee signings. SPORT claim that a deal for Neymar is an option that is “taking shape”.

With Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba ready to retire at the end of the 2025 campaign, Inter Miami have two designated player spots to fill in 2026. It is said that they “would love for Neymar to fill one of them”.

When it comes to Neymar’s next move, anything outside of Santos and Miami is considered to be “pure speculation and media buzz”. No other offers have been received, despite reports of interest from Italian teams in Serie A emerging, with a decision on what happens next expected to be made shortly.