Santos launch ambitious Neymar bid amid Chelsea interest in PSG star

Cameron Smith

Updated: 1 Jul 2022 12:52 BST
3 min read

Santos have launched an ambitious bid in an attempt to bring Paris Saint-Germain star Neymar back to the club.

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Neymar, 30, began his professional career at Santos, making his first-team debut in March 2009, aged 17, following in the footsteps of both Pele and Robinho, who also started their career at the Brazilian giants.

After 105 goal contributions in 134 games, Neymar left Santos to join Barcelona in 2013 and instantly gained worldwide attention. He became a superstar at Camp Nou, and launched himself the platform needed to make a world-record €222 million to PSG four years after joining Barcelona.

However, despite an impressive record on the domestic stage, Neymar hasn't delivered the European glory PSG had wished for upon signing him, and the Brazilian could leave the club this summer.

PSG are reportedly willing to listen to offers for the forward, with ESPN reporting that Chelsea have contacted the player and PSG after learning the Parisians were open to selling him this summer. However, the Blues aren't the only club linked with a move for Neymar.

The player himself has reportedly placed a return to Barcelona at the top of his list, and manager Xavi is open to the idea of re-signing the superstar.

But, they aren't the only former club interested in regaining Neymar's services this transfer window as Santos are also keen. The Brazilian side launched Neymar's career and now want to see him return to the club.

© ProShots - Neymar could leave PSG this summer

Neymar back to Santos?

According to Brazilian outlet UOL and Diario Sport, Santos have made a bold offer to Neymar in an effort to re-sign one of the biggest stars in the game. However, it's understood that Neymar's father quickly shut down the offer as the Brazilian wants to stay in Europe at the highest level of competition.

Santos reportedly called Neymar's father, but weren't greeted with the response they'd hoped for. The Brazilian side's president Andrés Rueda has made it clear what the club's fans want. "Today I received more than 100 messages talking about Neymar. The actions are underway," he said.