Chelsea is reportedly in prime position to launch a surprise offer for Neymar of Paris Saint-Germain.
The Brazil international experienced a disappointing campaign at Parc des Princes. The PSG supporters jeered him after his team’s dramatic Champions League loss against eventual champion Real Madrid.
With manager Mauricio Pochettino on the verge of leaving and a new sporting director in Luis Campos, the French champions are preparing for a busy summer of change.
And it is understood that Neymar’s exit is on Campos’ to-do list as he seeks to take the club in a new path.
Neymar’s desire, according to certain rumors, is to remain in Paris and win the Champions League with PSG.
In 2017, Barcelona sent Neymar to Paris in a world-record $198 million transfer. Neymar, who was hired to be the club’s star player, fell short of expectations. In 2020, when they reached the Champions League final but lost 1-0 to Bayern Munich, he was unable to guide his club to the elusive Champions League trophy.
GOAL reports that PSG executives are looking to trade Neymar due to his poor attitude and performance. The Brazilian’s relationship with Kylian Mbappe has recently deteriorated, and Mbappe is now the club’s star player after signing a massive new contract last month.
Neymar traveled to PSG to escape Lionel Messi’s shadow at Barcelona, but he now finds himself behind Messi and Mbappe in Paris.
Neymar is most likely to move to the Premier League, while other European clubs are experiencing financial issues. Sky Bet now has Chelsea as the 7/1 favorite to sign the Brazilian.
Romelu Lukaku is moving to Inter Milan on loan, and Armando Broja, a talented striker, is also expected to depart the club. This leaves Thomas Tuchel with only two forward options: Kai Havertz and Timo Werner.
Both Barcelona and Real Madrid are priced at 14/1, making them Chelsea’s closest competitors. Newcastle is also rumored to be in the running, but according to GOAL, Neymar is not interested in relocating to the north east.
Other Premier League teams, including Liverpool, Manchester City, and Manchester United, are currently outsiders.
Neymar’s future is uncertain, and it is unknown where he will be playing when the next season begins.