Sources in Spain suggest that Neymar is keen to make a dramatic return to Barcelona. Although he is currently with Al-Hilal in the Saudi Pro League and has been sidelined with a major knee injury since October, the 32-year-old Brazilian remains determined to rejoin Barcelona. Neymar left the club in 2017, transferring to PSG for a record €222 million.
Bar Canaletes reports that Neymar frequently communicates with Barcelona president Joan Laporta, which has increased his eagerness to return to Camp Nou. A potential transfer is not expected before the summer of 2025, when Neymar’s contract with Al-Hilal expires. At that time, he might reunite with Erling Haaland, as Laporta has started talks with the Manchester City striker, considering him as a future replacement for Robert Lewandowski in Barcelona’s attack.
The potential for Neymar’s return to Barcelona is fraught with financial concerns. His previous high salaries at PSG and Al-Hilal create uncertainty about whether he would agree to a significant pay cut to move back to Barcelona. If he is willing to accept a reduced salary, his return could become more feasible.
Concerns about Neymar’s fitness persist, as he has suffered at least one major injury each season since leaving for PSG. This raises doubts about his ability to recover from his most recent and severe injury. Despite making 178 club appearances since leaving Barcelona, his seven-year absence means he has averaged only 25 games per season.
Nonetheless, the idea of Neymar returning to Barcelona is still attractive to Laporta, who is drawn to the spectacle and flair that such a move would bring.
