Will Neymar Junior return to Barcelona in the next transfer window?

Neymar is considering the possibility of making a grand return to Barcelona, as he envisions a final chapter in his European career. Currently, the 33-year-old forward has returned to his roots, playing for Santos in Brazil. After parting ways with Al-Hilal in the Saudi Pro League due to injury concerns, a period that limited him to just seven appearances, Neymar is focused on revitalising his career at his first club.

Neymar has signed a six-month contract with Santos, agreeing to a significant pay cut to return to the club that played a pivotal role in his early career. This move is a strategic step as he plans for a game-changing transfer in the summer of 2025.

Neymar set sights on returning to Barcelona 

According to Cadena SER, Neymar is eager to prove his worth and value to Barcelona, aiming for a second opportunity at Camp Nou. His time at Santos is designed to get back his form and show his abilities to top European clubs, reaffirming his readiness.

There is growing speculation about Neymar’s potential return to Barcelona, where he once shone alongside Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez, ever since his record-breaking €222 million transfer to Paris Saint-Germain in 2017. 

This move could finally materialise as Barcelona’s sporting director, Deco, is actively seeking a left-winger. Neymar may be the prime candidate to fill that role, provided he can return to his old self and prove his fitness while with Santos. 

Spanish news outlet Cadena SER reports that FC Barcelona president Joan Laporta has established two firm conditions for Neymar's potential return. First, Neymar must arrive on a free transfer. Second, he must demonstrate that he can perform at the level demanded by the Catalan club in La Liga.

If so, he is expected to rejoin La Liga's giants on a salary comparable to his previous earnings. During his initial tenure with the Blaugrana, Neymar scored 105 goals in 186 appearances, leading the team to secure both La Liga and Champions League titles.