Brazilian football superstar Neymar is reportedly on the verge of rejoining his boyhood club Santos, marking a potential return to where his illustrious career began.
The 32-year-old forward is expected to leave Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal, following comments from manager Jorge Jesus suggesting Neymar is no longer capable of performing at the highest level. Neymar joined Al-Hilal in a high-profile £78 million move from PSG in the summer of 2023 but has managed just seven appearances due to persistent injuries.
Currently recovering from a hamstring injury sustained in November—only his second game back after a year-long absence from an anterior cruciate ligament and meniscus injury—Neymar is set to miss the remainder of the Saudi Pro League season. Consequently, Santos has reportedly submitted a formal loan proposal, with transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano stating on X:
“Neymar Jr., close to returning to Santos as the Brazilian club has now submitted formal loan proposal! Santos are waiting for green light from Al Hilal, timing depends on the Saudi club. Santos, way ahead of Chicago Fire in Ney race.”
Neymar’s contract with Al-Hilal ends at the close of the season, leaving him poised to become a free agent. A return to Santos would undoubtedly make headlines, as the forward initially rose to prominence at the Brazilian club, scoring 107 goals in 177 appearances before securing a move to Barcelona in 2013.
Despite speculation linking him to MLS, a homecoming at Santos seems to be the likeliest move, offering Neymar a chance to revive his career in familiar surroundings.
Manager Jorge Jesus addressed Neymar’s situation, saying:
“When I created this team, it was with Mitrovic and Neymar, before his injury that left him out for 14 or 15 months. Unfortunately, things have been difficult for him. It’s up to the club and administration to decide his future.”
Since joining Al-Hilal, Neymar has only scored one goal in seven matches and was not registered for the first half of the Saudi Pro League season. His future remains uncertain, but a return to Santos would no doubt be celebrated by fans eager to welcome their hero back home