Before terminating his contract with Al Hilal, Neymar was linked to clubs around the world—including a potential reunion with Lionel Messi at Inter Miami and a return to FC Barcelona. Now, with less than six months remaining on his current deal with Santos, the Brazilian forward has reportedly made a decision between a move to MLS or a return to Spain.
Injuries have plagued Neymar in recent years. After a record-breaking contract in Saudi Arabia, he struggled to find form and consistency at Al Hilal, which ultimately led to his departure. While still under contract with the Saudi club, reports emerged linking him to multiple teams, with Inter Miami and Barcelona standing out as the most likely options.
Neymar himself was open to reuniting with Messi and Luis Suarez. “Obviously, playing again with Messi and Suarez would be incredible. It would be interesting to relive that trio. I’m happy at Al Hilal, I’m happy in Saudi Arabia, but who knows. Football is full of surprises.” he told CNN Sport. With Inter Miami holding a Designated Player spot, speculation ramped up shortly after his exit.
Meanwhile, another strong possibility was a return to Barcelona, though his fitness reportedly raised concerns. Spanish media reported that head coach Hansi Flick was not in favor of signing Neymar in the short term due to his injury history—leaving Santos as the most realistic short-term option.
Neymar’s next club?
Currently sidelined by another injury, Neymar’s future has once again become a hot topic among fans. With the 2024–25 season nearing its end, it appears he may have already made up his mind.
According to Fabrizio Romano, Neymar’s desire is to return to Barcelona. The rumors circulating in March were reportedly driven more by Neymar and his camp than by the club itself, which has yet to open negotiations or outline a formal plan for his return.
“If Barcelona calls, Neymar would go tomorrow morning,” Romano stated, underlining the player’s eagerness to return to the club where he won the Champions League. However, Barça’s priorities currently lie in strengthening other positions—particularly right back.
Neymar’s current contract with Santos runs through June 2025, with an option to extend for an additional year. His interest in Inter Miami appears to have cooled, and a return to Barcelona—while still uncertain—may not be as far-fetched as it once seemed, provided he can stay fit and lower his salary demands.