Revealed: The two reasons why Barcelona have ruled out a sensational Neymar return this summer despite Brazilian's fine form for Santos - with £150m-rated Premier League star their No.1 striker target

According to Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona have no plans to pursue a surprise return for their former player Neymar despite reports to the contrary. Instead, the Catalan giants are said to have shortlisted several top names playing in Europe's top five leagues to strengthen their frontline.

Neymar rejoined boyhood club Santos on a six-month deal in January after terminating his contract with Saudi side Al-Hilal via mutual consent. In seven games back in Brazil, the 33-year-old has scored three times and assisted as many goals, showing glimpses of the player who shone at Barca between 2013 and 2017.

However, the Blaugrana are currently showing no desire to reunite with one of their best ever forwards due to his age and the 'current level of his performances'. They are moving in a different direction and their top priority for the summer remains Newcastle United's Alexander Isak, who is valued at £150 million.

The report from Mundo Deportivo also reveals that the option for Neymar's return had been available in previous years but was never pursued. Moreover, Barca head coach Hansi Flick believes that the Brazilian would not be a good fit in his current system.

As such, the club have also shortlisted two left wingers who they think would add a different dimension to their already staggering attack - Liverpool's Luis Diaz and AC Milan's Rafael Leao.

Should Neymar's impressive form continue for Santos, a move to one of Europe's top clubs could still be on the cards, even if it's not to Barcelona. However, Santos president Marcelo Teixeira recently asserted that he was confident about their star man renewing with the club to stay at least until the 2026 World Cup.