Neymar signs contract: Barcelona legend secures future until 2026 World Cup

Neymar is understood to be in advanced negotiations to secure his future up until the 2026 World Cup, having been heavily linked with a return to Barcelona this summer.

The Brazilian legend re-joined his boyhood club Santos in January after leaving Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal, having been released after failing to recover from an ACL injury he suffered in October 2023.

Neymar’s second spell at Santos has been fruitful so far, with the 33-year-old providing three goals and three assists in seven matches, although he has been unavailable since March due to a thigh injury.

But with his recovery said to be imminent, TNT Sports Brasil now claim that Neymar is set to extend his contract with Santos until the middle of 2026, up until the start of the next World Cup which the forward is still hopeful of playing in.

Neymar initially penned a short-term contract until June but Santos are said to recognise the importance of keeping hold of their iconic star for both sporting and commercial reasons.

Santos are hoping that Neymar will travel with them for their game in the Copa do Brasil next week and return from injury after more than two months on the sideline.

Barca reject Neymar return despite Raphinha plea

Neymar’s future effectively being resolved has ended any rumours linking him with Barcelona, with speculation having intensified that the club’s former icon could be set for a sensational comeback.

However, club sporting director Deco is said to have had ruled out a return for Neymar due to his declining form and a belief that his presence could prove to be negative for Barca’s young stars.

Barca star Raphinha also hinted that his club had turned down the chance to sign Neymar after revealing a conversation he had with his Brazilian teammate.

“There was a lot of talk about Neymar coming back to Barca,” Raphinha said during an interview with Isabela Pagliari shared on YouTube. “I told him: ‘Come on, you know the club wants you, the fans want you, and everyone would love to have you back.’”

“In the end, it didn’t depend on me or on him.”

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