Is Brazilian Superstar Neymar set join an MLS Franchise?
Is Brazilian Superstar Neymar set join an MLS Franchise?
Neymar is one of the most recognisable soccer players on the planet. The 32-year-old is widely regarded as one of the most talented players of his generation and is best known for his productive spells at Barcelona and PSG. The Brazilian international has also graced the international stage and is just one of a handful of players to have scored 100+ goals for three different clubs. Although he began his career at Santos, he rose to prominence as one-third of Barcelona’s infamous strikeforce alongside Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez after joining the Catalan club in 2013.
The odds predict a 34.8% chance that Neymar will sign for an MLS club before February 3rd 2025 ::: Discover the current Odds now HEREÂ
🚨ESPN Brasil:
Neymar is in discussions with 3 MLS clubs over a transfer in January, which includes the Chicago Fire 🔥
Miami is not in talks due to MLS restrictions with salaries, but a move is not fully ruled out. The player would like to reunite with Messi and Suarez 👀 pic.twitter.com/sAwjtoQP0Z
— Brasil Football 🇧🇷 (@BrasilEdition) January 16, 2025
Why is Neymar Moving?
Neymar’s current contract with Al-Hilal expires in June 2025 and the Brazilian is starting to ponder his next move. The Saudi outfit forked out $97.6million for his services, yet his time in the Middle East has been beset by injuries. He picked up an ACL whilst on international duty shortly after joining and made his long awaited return in October 2024.
He’s scored once in his seven appearances and it has been a disappointing return for one of the most iconic players on the planet.
Although he must remain at the club until the summer, he is free to began negotiating with other clubs and the 32-year-old is keen to continue playing despite the frustration of recent setbacks. Coach Jorge Jesus confirmed his imminent departure and admitted that he “can no longer perform at the level we are accustomed to…”.
Why the MLS?
Neymar has several options, however, his wage demands also rule out a number of potential suitors. Barcelona’s financial predicament makes a return to Catalonia unlikely, whereas FFP rules mean that very few Premier League clubs are unlikely to give the ageing star a second glance.
Chicago Fire, managed by former USMNT coach Gregg Berhaltar has emerged as a potential option with this transfer potentially increasing competitiveness in the Western Conference. He would also get top billing in a roster which boasts very few star players.
Atlanta United, who are actively looking to recruit in forward areas are another side who have been linked with his signature whereas Orlando City are another option, particularly when you factor in the region’s sizeable Brazilian contigent.
Sanjesh Singh, writing for NBC New York also lists New York Red Bulls and Columbus Crew as potential destinations.
Nevertheless, Inter Miami cannot be ruled out of the running. Neymar has previously commented on his former teammates Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez, both of whom have opted to remain in MLS and are likely to feature for the Herons in 2025.
Major League Soccer has increased its global appeal exponentially over the last decade and the potential arrival of Neymar would potentially elevate it further. The prospect of Messi, Suarez and Neymar being reunited is a potentially mouthwatering prospect for soccer fans, particularly those who following the progress of Barcelona in mid-2000s.
The MLS would give Neymar an opportunity to build up his fitness and prove that he is still capable of influencing matches.
Other Potential Destinations
According to the latest odds, there is around a 14% chance that Neymar returns to Brazil with an emotional reunion at Santos cited as a possibility. At the end of 2024, it was suggested that he is keen to return to his homeland at some point and the Sao Paulo have not distanced themselves from these rumours. He scored 136 times in 225 appearances for his hometown club and his return would spark pandemonimum amongst supporters.
Rumours have recently emerged of Neymar potentially heading to Greece. Olympiakos are the club who have been linked with his signature and this would give the Brazilian an opportunity to test himself in Europe.
Although a move to the Premier League feels unlikely, Chelsea and Manchester City are options, although the latter may need to wait until the outcome of the ongoing inquiry into their financial dealings.
If you believe that Neymar will sign for Santos, you could win €700 by betting €100 at Betfair if it happens.Â
