Neymar Likely To Terminate Al-Hilal Contract To Return To Santos: Reports

Last Updated:January 27, 2025, 10:40 IST

Neymar joined Al-Hilal from PSG in the summer of 2023 for a reported fee of 97.6 million USD.

Neymar’s stint in Saudi Arabia seems to be coming to an end soon. Neymar appears to be on the verge of leaving Saudi Pro League outfit Al-Hilal, with multiple reports citing the Brazilian legend’s possible return to his childhood club, Santos. Football journalist Fabrizio Romano claimed Neymar’s return to Santos is now “imminent as verbal agreement has been reached.” Romano even suggested the former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) footballer has “already said yes” to the move. “Breaking: Neymar’s return to Santos is now imminent as verbal agreement has been reached. Formal steps to follow next week for the final formula of the deal from Al Hilal and contracts to be checked. Neymar already said yes to the move… here we go, soon,” read the post shared by Romano on X (formerly Twitter).

An article published by ESPN claimed that sources have informed Neymar’s contract with Al Hilal is expected to be terminated. The final details are being negotiated. The article suggested that the two sides are likely to meet early this week to find an agreement. If that happens, Neymar will probably sign a six-month contract. As per ESPN, Neymar’s new contract with Santos will have an option to be extended for an additional year.

Al-Hilal manager Jorge Jesus had said earlier this month that Neymar can no longer “play at the level” the club is used to. “Neymar will not be registered in the team for the championship. He can participate in the Asian Champions League. The Saudi League is one of the best leagues in the world. All Al-Hilal players can play for any club in Europe,” Jesus had said, as per GOAL.

“Things have become difficult for him, unfortunately. He is still under contract with Al Hilal. It may be up to him to decide his future. It depends on the administration. I don’t know anything about Neymar’s future. We have a place on the list reserved for a player born in 2003 or later,” Jorge Jesus added.

Neymar’s stint in Saudi Arabia did not turn out to be a memorable one. He joined Al-Hilal from PSG in the summer of 2023 for a reported fee of $97.6 million. Plagued by injuries, the 32-year-old had to deal with difficulties in the Saudi Pro League. After joining Al Hilal, Neymar endured a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee. Neymar did make a return to competitive action last October but a hamstring injury caused a massive headache.

Location :

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia