Transfer Rumors: Neymar Aiming For MLS After Paris Saint-Germain Stint

Brazilian superstar Neymar is reportedly considering moving to Major League Soccer (MLS) once his time with Paris Saint-Germain comes to an end.

The sudden revelation came in Neymar’s guest appearance on the Brazilian “Fenomenos” podcast featuring soccer great Ronaldo, where the 30-year-old strongly suggested that he might not play in any Brazilian leagues, opting instead to try his luck with MLS.

"I don't know, I have some doubts about that. I don't know if I'll play in Brazil again. I'd love to play in the U.S. actually. I'd love to play there [with MLS] at least for a season,” said Neymar in his native tongue.

Prior to the Paris Saint-Germain star dropping this nugget of information, the news of him being courted by an icon of the sport-turned-football club owner was reported as early as February 2020.

Inter Miami CF co-owner David Beckham made his supposed pitch to Neymar following a one-on-one interview for soccer-centric digital platform OTRO.

“I told him [David Beckham] I will play there one day. I believe this is a great opportunity for the country to grow its soccer [roots]. As I said before, I already have my contract with David. A few years from now, I will be there,” Neymar reportedly said.

Going solely off of Neymar’s comments back in 2020, the “few years” that he mentioned could most likely happen following the 2024-25 soccer season as he has just signed his four-year extension with Paris Saint-Germain back in May 2021.

This new deal will reportedly see Neymar earn around $36.5 million per season (roughly $146 million for four years) with a bonus if Paris Saint-Germain wins the UEFA Champions League title.

For now, Neymar and his side will have to focus on securing the French Ligue One title while also gunning for a UEFA Champions League finals appearance.

The revamped Paris Saint-Germain side, now featuring Lionel Messi, is in prime contention of sealing the Ligue One title as they are 13 points ahead of second-place Olympique de Marseille.

As for their spot in the UEFA Champions League, they are coming off a 1-0 victory over Real Madrid in the first leg of their Round of 16 matchup thanks to a late goal in stoppage time from Mbappe.

The second leg will have Neymar and the Parisians visit Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium on March 14.