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Neymar Set for Stunning Santos Deal With World Cup Comeback in Sight

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Emmanuel Mendez | Last updated May 15, 2025 1:57 PM ET

Neymar’s career seemed to be winding down—until now. With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, the Brazilian star is eyeing a major comeback, and his next move could shock everyone.

He returned to his boyhood club earlier this year, but his contract will expire on June 30. Neymar is currently 33 years old, with many of his fans believing that he still has a future in Europe due to his high level over the years.

The last time he played in Europe was with PSG in 2023. He then joined the Saudi Arabian club, Al Hilal, that summer, but only played seven games over two seasons due to an ACL injury he suffered in a Brazil game in 2023.

Now back in Brazil with Santos FC, Neymar would become the most high profile free agent in global soccer — unless the club decides to offer him a new contract.

Neymar closer to continue at Santos

TNT Sports Brazil reports that Neymar is set to renew his contract with Santos FC ahead of the World Cup next year. Neymar signed a six-month contract with a base salary of around $500,000. The Daily Mail reported that he receives 80% of the commercial deals the club secures during these six months.

Neymar scores his first goal back at Santos after 12 years pic.twitter.com/jPBVH298AF
— GOAL (@goal) February 17, 2025

Perks Neymar Reportedly Gets at Santos:

$3.8 million per month
80% of the commercial deals
Free private flights
Luxury hotels
Business-class travel for his father's staff.

This new proposed contract will last until the summer of 2026. O Jogo suggests that Neymar remains in the plans of the Brazilian National team.

Their new manager, Carlo Ancelotti, reportedly will have Neymar in consideration for future call-ups for the national team. The Italian coach sees Neymar as a key player for the team despite not playing in Europe anymore.

Neymar scores an incredible Olimpico goal in Santos win pic.twitter.com/KuLa4dFyp2
— GOAL (@goal) February 24, 2025

Neymar at Santos so far

Since his arrival earlier this year, Neymar has only played nine games for Santos. In seven games of the Campeonato Paulista, Neymar scored three goals and provided three assists. He only played two games in the Brazilian Serie A and is currently injured.

Is Neymar ready to silence the doubters?

His last game was in Santos' 2-0 win over Atlético Mineiro, but he came off the pitch in the 34th minute. His return seems sooner rather than later. Reports in Brazil say that Neymar is expected to return to group training this week.