Chelsea

Chelsea

Premier League • England

Neymar in Chelsea contact after confronting PSG reality over transfer stance

Neymar during a Paris Saint-Germain match

Contact has been established between Neymar and Chelsea, according to a report, although it remains to be seen if a transfer will materialise.

Neymar became the most expensive footballer in history when he left Barcelona for Paris Saint-Germain in 2017. Soon, it could be time for him to make another high-profile move.

Although under contract until at least 2025 – some sources suggest it is actually 2027 – the winger may make way from the Parc des Princes this summer. Reports have suggested PSG, who are undergoing a summer of change, are open to offloading him.

In turn, ESPN claim Neymar is now “considering leaving” the club because of their stance on his future.

The report reveals that “contact has been made with Chelsea”, although it appears to be led by the player’s side at this stage.

Not many clubs in the world would be able to afford to sign Neymar, when taking into account his transfer fee and wages. However, there is a widespread acknowledgement that new Chelsea owner Todd Boehly wants to make a statement signing this summer.

Chelsea have been working on modifying their attack amid the departure of centre-forward Romelu Lukaku. They seem less likely to sign a similar replacement, but want to strengthen in the final third regardless.

For example, they have been linked with the likes of Raheem Sterling, Ousmane Dembele and Raphinha. But perhaps a high-profile swoop for Neymar could now become a source of discussion.

Chelsea coach Thomas Tuchel previously worked with Neymar in Paris. He gave him 67 appearances, from which the forward rewarded him with 51 goals and 32 assists. No PSG boss has got more out of him.

Whether Tuchel is considering a reunion with Neymar at Stamford Bridge remains to be seen. It is certainly something Silva would approve of.

Agent Pini Zahavi is looking for other solutions as well. However, he is all too aware that many clubs will not be able to match the €43m gross annual salary (around £715,000 per week) that Neymar earns in the French capital.

Neymar to Chelsea would be stunning

Neymar’s last transfer five years ago sent shockwaves around the world. In the time since, he has won four French titles, scoring 100 goals in 144 PSG appearances.

One of the most high-profile players on the planet, his next move is sure to catch the eye as well.

Neymar linked with Newcastle United from PSG

Neymar linked with Newcastle United from PSG

Neymar linked to Newcastle United in shock switch from PSG to Premier League

Having never played in the Premier League before, joining Chelsea may be a good next step for the 30-year-old. It would hinge on them being able to accommodate him, though.

For now, this seems like one to keep an eye on, rather than one that would definitely happen.

Interestingly, Neymar is not the only PSG player being linked with Chelsea, who have also learnt the asking price for a top defender.