Neymar donates $1 million to fight coronavirus outbreak in Brazil
What's the story
Football superstar Neymar has donated $1 million to fight the impact of the new coronavirus in his native Brazil, according to TV network SBT. The Paris Saint-Germain forward donated part of the money to the United Nations Children's Fund, and the rest to a charitable fund launched by his friend Luciano Huck, who is a Brazilian TV presenter. Here's more.
Neymar
Neymar follows the footsteps of several star footballers
Meanwhile, Neymar's press office declined to comment, saying: "We never talk about donations or amounts." The 28-year-old Neymar followed the example of PSG team member Kylian Mbappe, who last month made a major contribution monetarily to a French charity helping fight the impact of COVID-19. Neymar also followed the footsteps of Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo and Robert Lewandowski in terms of making contributions.
Help
Huck launches fund to help Rio de Janeiro neighborhoods
Huck, who has been touted as a possible candidate in Brazil's 2022 presidential election, launched his fund to help poor Rio de Janeiro neighborhoods, who are vulnerable to coronavirus. The donations come as high-paid footballers face have been asked to forego certain part of their salaries amid the crisis. The sporting world to a halt and left some clubs struggling to pay their staff.
Swap
Barca interested in Griezmann-Neymar swap deal
Meanwhile, it was reported earlier that Spanish club Barcelona are hoping to strike a part-exchange deal for Neymar that would see Antoine Griezmann join Paris Saint-Germain this summer. According to Sky Sports, Barcelona are prepared to let Griezmann go after just one season to help fund the priority signings of Neymar and Inter Milan striker Lautaro Martinez.
Rivaldo on Neymar
Legend Rivaldo has his say on Neymar
Meanwhile, former Brazil star Rivaldo had his say on Neymar. "Looking at the last few years we have seen many valuable players who didn't manage to play alongside Messi - failing to perform under the expectations. "But Neymar - like Luis Suárez - is one of the few players in the world that doesn't feel pressure on the pitch," said Rivaldo to Goal.com.