Neymar Jr. could make a sensational return to Europe as his former club, Barcelona, is reportedly exploring a surprising reunion with the Brazilian star forward.
Despite playing well to start the 2024-25 season under new head coach Hansi Flick, Barca is looking for reinforcement in the attacking department. Their leading striker, Robert Lewandowski, is 36, and there are doubts that he can play at a high level for much longer.
Barcelona’s primary target is believed to be Manchester City’s star attacker Erling Haaland, whom they intend to pursue next summer. However, if the move for Haaland doesn’t work out, the La Liga giants have penciled Neymar as a backup target, according to Spanish media outlet Sport.
Neymar is currently a member of Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal, but will be out of contract in the summer of 2025. This would allow him to sign with another club for free, something that Barca would appreciate considering their dire financial situation.
The player himself is believed to be interested in the move, considering that he would like to make Brazil’s national team for the 2026 World Cup and wants to have a strong campaign leading to the tournament. Neymar is currently sidelined due to an ACL tear but is expected to return to action soon.
Neymar spent four seasons at Barcelona, playing for the Catalan club between 2013 and 2017. During that time, he made 186 appearances and scored 105 goals while winning two La Liga titles and one UEFA Champions League trophy.
