Neymar opens talks on SENSATIONAL transfer to PSG's BITTER rivals after fan bust up

Suraj Radia
Suraj Radia
  • 29 Jul 2025 11:00 BST
  • 4 min read
Neymar, Santos, 2025
© IMAGO

Neymar could be set for a sensational return to Europe and to Ligue 1 after opening talks with the bitter rivals of his former club Paris Saint-Germain.

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The Brazilian superstar has endured a difficult time since returning to his boyhood club Santos in January, with the 33-year-old enduring criticism from fans due to the poor performances of him and the team.

STATS
Player image Neymar 
Neymar 

AM, M (C)

Santos logo

Santos

Neymar 
Neymar 

AM, M (C)

Santos

Santos

All Tournaments

2025

  • 16

    Games

  • 4

    Goals

  • 3

    Assists

Santos sit in the relegation zone in the Brazilian Serie A, while injuries have limited Neymar to just nine appearances and one goal, prompting fans to issue a statement criticising the forward.

The situation has prompted Neymar to consider a return to Europe accruing to TyC Sports, who claim that Marseille have set their sights on the former PSG star, whose contract ends in December.

Neymar is said to ‘not mind’ the move in order to get into shape and play at the highest level prior to the 2026 World Cup, although a switch to his former club’s closest rivals would undoubtedly cause more controversy.

Neymar set for bitter end to Santos return

Neymar’s time in Brazil has been frustrating and led to a confrontation with a fan during a match earlier this month, with the player accusing the supporter of insulting his family.

Santos fans released a statement shortly after, criticising the club and Neymar for their ‘lack of understanding’ towards the responsibilities of being their ‘idol’.

Neymar has endured criticism during his time at Santos.
© IMAGO - Neymar has endured criticism during his time at Santos.

“The idol is you and we ask you to act as such,” the statement read. “You said you felt offended by hearing a fan yell at you that you and your family are mercenaries, and you responded that you could be earning much more money elsewhere, something we know.

“Imagine an exhausted fan, with years of accumulated impotence, seeing his apathetic team, losing at home again and in the relegation zone, having the chance to look his idol in the eyes and implore him to get that unstable squad playing. Wouldn't you do it?"

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