NEYMAR looks set to leave Paris Saint-Germain and return to Barcelona in the summer after admitting that he would relish a “new challenge” this year.
The Brazilian star could return to the Nou Camp after leaving for a world record £198million in 2017 but a deal is not thought to be likely in the current January transfer window.
Brazilian superstar Neymar looks set for a return to old club Barcelona in the summerCredit: AFP or licensors
Speaking at a Red Bull sponsorship event, Neymar seemingly confirmed rumours he would leave the French capital this summer in search of “new challenges” after the conclusion of the Copa America on July 12.
He said: “My goal is to win everything I can with Paris and the Brazilian national team.
“Reach the Champions League final, win the Copa America again, find new challenges.”
Despite his possible departure, Neymar, 27, issued a warning to Europe’s top clubs by highlighting his desire to help PSG get past the Champions League quarter-finals for the first time.
He said: “Paris has never won the Champions League, so people are going to give it their all.
“We know we have quality and we hope to be among the finalists.”
Neymar was close to rejoining the Catalan giants last summer as Barca bosses attempted to re-sign him in a deal worth up to £236million but the two clubs were unable to agree terms and the Brazilian remained at the Parc des Princes.
Despite the move falling through, Neymar hinted that he had to leave when he spoke to France Football.
He said: “I never wanted to hurt anyone, but I always knew in my head that if you’re not happy somewhere, you must leave.”
The Brazilian’s determination to leave is reflected in rumours that he is “preparing a legal battle” in order to quit PSG and may even pay around £17million of his own money to land a dream return to Barcelona.
The relationship between the respective Spanish and French champions has soured ever since PSG poached Neymar from Barca by activating his massive release clause over two years ago.
The Brazilian’s time in Paris has been plagued by controversy with rumours suggesting he immediately regretted the move and speculation that PSG would rather sell the wantaway star to Barca’s El Clasico rivals Real Madrid than grant him a return to his old club.
The French club’s fans have booed Neymar this season amid talk of him engineering a move away and manager Thomas Tuchel even said he can be difficult to manage.
Neymar fuelled rumours of a return to Spain when he was pictured with Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez at the ex-Liverpool striker’s wedding vow renewal service.
It now looks likely he will leave PSG at the end of the season.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
