Santos superstar Neymar reveals he came 'very close' to joining Thiago Silva at Fluminense for Club World Cup

Neymar has confirmed that Fluminense attempted to sign him on a short-term deal so that he could play in the Club World Cup. However, the 33-year-old opted against making the move as he continues building his fitness back up. The Brazil superstar has made just one start for Santos since missing five games with a hamstring injury, and is focused on getting back in top condition for the time being.

Fluminense approached Santos over a potential short-term deal that could have seen Neymar link up with former Brazil team-mate Thiago Silva, but he is focused on returning to consistent action with Santos. He has only managed four league appearances this season and was sent off in the most recent, against Botafogo.

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Neymar said: "I'm in good physical shape. We had these conversations with some teams to play in the World Cup, Fluminense was something that came very close to happening, but I preferred to stay to train a little more.

"I'm 100% physically, but I need to get better to be able to come back in good shape."

Santos play Flamengo on July 17. In the meantime, Fluminense face Ulsan on Saturday in their second Club World Cup game, having drawn 0-0 with Borussia Dortmund in their opener.