Brazilian superstar, Neymar, appears set to leave Paris Saint-Germain this summer, with sources monitored by THEWILL indicating he is finalising a move to join a club in Saudi Arabia’s cash-flush league.
Neymar joined PSG for a world record €222 million fee in 2017 but has had an injury-plagued stint at the club. He helped them reach the 2020 UEFA Champions League final but has often been unavailable for key European clashes. The 31-year-old was absent from PSG’s Ligue 1 opener on Saturday, which the club attributed to illness, but he is said to no longer be part of their plans going forward.
With PSG in a state of change after the departure of Lionel Messi, Neymar looks to be following the Argentine out the exit door. Reports in France have linked Saudi club Al-Hilal as the likely destination for Neymar. They are said to have tabled an offer that now needs PSG’s approval. Al-Hilal tried to sign PSG’s Kylian Mbappe for 300 million euros last month but were rebuffed.
Landing Neymar would be a major coup for Hilal in their quest to attract global superstars. On Saturday, they lost the Arab Cup to Al Nassr, with a winning brace from Cristiano Ronaldo after the game stretched into extra time locked at 1-1.
At 31, Neymar likely has a few more prime years left. A move to the Middle East would allow him to play a pivotal role for his new club while also cashing in hugely on his salary and endorsements. He would become the latest big name to join Saudi Arabia’s expanding league even further. For PSG, offloading Neymar would free up funds to rebuild under new coach, Luis Enrique.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
