Neymar Set to Join Al-Hilal as Al-Hilal and Paris St-Germain Reach Agreement for Brazilian Forward

Paris St-Germain have reached an agreement to transfer Brazilian forward Neymar to Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal for a reported fee of approximately 90 million euros (£77.6 million) plus potential add-ons.

The completion of the transfer is contingent upon the 31-year-old successfully undergoing a medical examination and completing all necessary documentation.

Neymar, who had initially joined PSG in 2017 for a world-record sum of £200 million, was notably absent from their squad during the recent Ligue 1 match against Lorient.

The Brazilian’s departure aligns with PSG’s strategy of moving away from the era of acquiring high-profile players for large fees and substantial wages, a direction that was further emphasized by Lionel Messi’s departure from the club earlier this summer.

Neymar’s earnings at PSG were estimated to be around 25 million euros (£21.6 million) annually. In Saudi Arabia, he is rumored to receive a substantial increase in his salary, potentially amounting to 150 million euros (£129.2 million) per year – approximately six times what he earned at PSG.

During his tenure at PSG, Neymar appeared in 173 matches, contributing to the team’s acquisition of 13 trophies, including five Ligue 1 titles, in addition to reaching the 2020 Champions League final. However, his time in Paris was marked by a series of ankle injuries that hampered his consistent performance.

Neymar’s recent surgery in March had kept him out for the remainder of the season, and he only resumed training in July. Additionally, he missed games during the 2022 World Cup due to an injury sustained in Brazil’s opening group match.

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The transfer news coincides with Kylian Mbappe’s return to first-team training with PSG after positive negotiations with the club. Mbappe, who had been embroiled in a contract dispute, might now extend his contract with PSG. His current deal is set to expire next summer.

The Saudi Pro League has been making significant signings this summer, with players like Karim Benzema, N’Golo Kante, Jordan Henderson, Ruben Neves, Sadio Mane, Roberto Firmino, and even Cristiano Ronaldo joining various Saudi clubs. The league’s financial clout has caused a shift in the transfer market, attracting high-profile players from major European clubs.

This signing marks a continuation of the Saudi Pro League’s efforts to establish itself as a prominent global football competition in the coming years. While Neymar’s best days might be behind him due to injuries, his presence is expected to maintain the league’s spotlight and reputation for attracting star players. Just like Messi, even in moments, Neymar’s brilliance can still shine.