Patrick Rees
After missing out on their long-term contract Antoine Griezmann, Manchester United have turned their attention to one of Barcelona’s stalwarts in Neymar. And if the report from the Spanish news outlet Don Balon is to be believed, the Devils are ready to meet his £173m buy-out clause this summer in order to bring him to Old Trafford.
Barcelona are sure to have a busy transfer market given the fact that their new manager Ernesto Valverde will be looking to mould the Catalan club as per his plans. So departures are expected. Besides Neymar, the aforementioned source, a couple of weeks back, also added that Jose Mourinho wanted Jordi Alba at Old Trafford as well.
Since his Santos days, Manchester United have monitored the Brazilian sensation, and this time around, they might well acquire his signature. Furthermore, it has also been reported that Neymar is starting to grow impatient due to the Catalan club’s lack of transfer activities this summer. Barcelona, on their part, will be certain to hold on to him but given the fact that Manchester United are well capable of offering the money, there is a slight possibility that the transfer might happen.
The source has further added that a statement about a possible transfer has already reached the Brazilian, but apart from Manchester United, Paris Saint-Germain have also shown some interest. The capital club too are willing to bring Neymar to Parc des Princes where he will line up with his Brazilian teammates Thiago Silva, Lucas Moura, and Marquinhos.
Neymar, who scored 20 goals and 19 assists in 45 appearances last season, has established himself as one of the best in the world since his move to Barcelona back in 2013. Even though he still has a contract with Barcelona that runs until 2021, a high degree of uncertainty lies regarding his future at the club.
Known for his flashy pace and eye-catching trickery, Neymar might initially struggle in the Premier League. The reason being his not-so-very muscular physique. Besides, he is also not known for his defensive contribution, which is something that will upset Mourinho at some point.
It now remains to be seen whether Neymar makes his mind up to move on or decides to stay put.
