Is Neymar Close to Extending His Santos Deal?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Neymar is negotiating a contract extension with Santos.
- Local media suggest a possible move to MLS.
- He has struggled with form since recovering from injury.
- Teixeira defends Neymar against criticism regarding his lifestyle.
- There are hopes for Neymar to lead Brazil in the next World Cup.
Rio de Janeiro, June 23 (NationPress) The experienced forward Neymar is on the verge of extending his contract with Santos, as confirmed by the president of the Brazilian Serie A club, Marcelo Teixeira.
The 33-year-old's current agreement is due to expire on June 30, and local news outlets have speculated about a potential transfer to Major League Soccer.
However, Santos has ramped up its efforts to keep the former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain star in recent days and is optimistic that a deal will be concluded shortly.
"We are in discussions with Neymar's representatives," club president Teixeira disclosed to Radio Bandeirantes, according to Xinhua. "We are making significant strides in our negotiations and are very close to reaching a new agreement that would enable Neymar to remain for an extended period."
Neymar, Brazil's all-time leading scorer with 79 goals, has faced challenges in both form and fitness since recovering from a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament injury sustained in October 2023.
This year, he has appeared in only 12 matches across all competitions for Santos, netting three goals and providing three assists after returning to his childhood club on a six-month contract in January.
Teixeira defended the attacker against criticism that his off-field conduct and celebrity lifestyle were impacting his performance.
"Off the pitch, he has his issues that often stir controversy," Teixeira stated. "His profile ensures that everything he does has global implications. We acknowledge that."
Teixeira emphasized that his aim is to assist Neymar in his recovery to ensure he can participate in next year's World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
"We all desire to see Neymar there, and he wishes to play," he added. "He is undergoing a recovery process, and we want to support him so he can return better and stronger very soon."
Neymar aspires to lead Brazil into the upcoming World Cup as the captain of his nation. He has already amassed 128 caps and 79 goals for the Seleção, but he is determined to seize one more chance at global triumph.