Neymar to Barcelona, again?
Rumors swirl around the market as the Brazilian superstar might leave PSG for a Barcelona return
Paris Saint Germain broke the transfer record in 2017 to bring Neymar from Barcelona, a deal which cost them an astonishing 222 million Euros. But rumors about a Neymar return to Camp Nou is swirling in the air, and with the PSG President Naser Al-Khelaifi raising public questions about Neymar’s dedication, it might just happen.
Barcelona bought Neymar from Santos in 2013 by a controversial transfer as they fought off Chelsea and Real Madrid. After a lacklustre first season in which Barcelona remained trophyless, Neymar came into full rhythm in the next season. Combining with Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez, he was part of the deadly trio MSN which wreaked havoc throughout Europe, as Barcelona won the treble. They won a total of five trophies that season, and won the league and the cup next season. In his last season, Barcelona managed to win only the Spanish cup.
He left for PSG in 2017, in a deal breaking every transfer record there is. He was instantly made one of the highest paid players in the world, and PSG expected him to take them towards the Champions League glory they were craving for.
Keep updated, follow The Business Standard's Google news channel
But he has failed, and he has failed miserably as PSG were knocked out of the Round of 16 stage for the last two seasons. And as Barcelona look for a world-class left winger, PSG President Naser Al-Khelaifi’s public comment questioning Neymar has created a chance for him to return to the club where he was at his peak.
The deal won’t be cheap, as PSG are known for not letting go of players until their contract runs out. Barcelona are reportedly willing to offer PSG 100 million Euros and Ivan Rakitic, Samuel Umtiti and Ousmane Dembele for Neymar, and considering the price of those players, the transfer fee would be around 300 million Euros.
Barcelona are desperate for European success as they have missed out for the last four seasons, especially after bottling three-goal leads in consecutive seasons. They are willing to rebuild their side completely, and Neymar might be the big money signing they need.
