Yahoo Sports π§π· Santos 'close to deal' with Al-Hilal over sensational Neymar return
A Brazilian superstar could be set for a sensational return after a bombshell update regarding Neymar's future on Sunday.
According to Brazilian outlets, transfer guru Fabrizio Romano and MLS insider Tom Bogert, the 32-year-old is set to leave Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal for Santos FC - the club where his career began.
The two clubs are reportedly "close to a loan deal" which would see Neymar return to his home country for six months. The news arrives after the former Barcelona and Paris Saint Germain ace was linked with a move to Chicago Fire in Major League Soccer.
π¨π§¨ 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 as @diariodopeixe @clmerlo called. pic.twitter.com/ohn8NwF2hVβ Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) January 19, 2025
A Santos FC-focused outlet in Brazil claims, "The player made it clear to his father and agents that he wanted to return to the club that started his career."
However, Globo adds that there are still financial stipulations to be ironed out in order for the deal to materialize.
"There is about 65 million dollars outstanding for Neymar to receive from Al-Hilal and the player does not give up this amount at this time, although he wants to be released."
Still, Santos are said to remain confident about reaching a deal with the Saudi Arabian side after reaching an agreement with the player independently.
Before moving to Europe, Neymar made 225 appearances for Santos, registering 136 goals and 64 assists. The Brasileiro SΓ©rie B side currently sits in first in the league.
πΈ Yasser Bakhsh - 2024 Getty Images
