Santos CEO Teases Closeness to Neymar
Santos, the iconic Brazilian football club, has found itself in the spotlight with whispers of a potential return for their prodigious prodigal son, Neymar. CEO Pedro Martinez, speaking with Brazilian channel TNT, hinted at the club’s keen interest.
“I’m not one to speculate on rumors,” Martinez said, “but it would be mendacious to deny that Santos has no interest in Neymar. Things are fluid, and nothing’s set in stone. Al Hilal, of course, is also part of the equation.”
Earlier today, Brazilian media buzzed with reports of a potential six-month loan agreement between Santos and Neymar’s father. Sources close to the deal claim that Neymar, citing financial troubles, is pushing for a payment plan to settle his $65 million contract with Al Hilal.
Should the deal materialize, Al Hilal would foot the majority of Neymar’s salary, with Santos covering a smaller faction.
Reacting to the speculation, Santos coach Pedro Caixinha shared his thoughts at a press conference following his side’s 1-1 draw against Ponte Preta. “I was here to discuss today’s match,” he said, “but what coach wouldn’t want Neymar in their team? If it happens, I’d be thrilled to talk about it. If not, there’s nothing more to say.”
Neymar’s historic stint at Santos, from 2009 to 2013, saw him notch 225 appearances, 136 goals, and six trophy wins, including the Copa Libertadores in 2011 and the Recopa Sudamericana in 2012.