Are PSG willing to sell Neymar? Details here
What's the story
Brazilian superstar Neymar Junior has been in the news of late for his rumored exit from Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). While there are reports that he could switch back to Barcelona, there have not been any concrete offers for him so far. With a number of clubs interested in acquiring his services, here is what PSG had to say about his alleged exit.
Statement
PSG releases official statement over Neymar's rumored exit
PSG released an official statement, saying that Neymar can leave the club, provided the right offer comes up for him from any club. They also said that they are unsure if any club wants to buy him or for what price. "What is certain is that this sort of thing does not get done in one day," the statement read.
Quote
PSG believe Barca are not in a position to buy
"They [Barca] said they want to buy him, but that we do not want to sell him. That is what [Barca chairman Josep Maria Bartomeu] said, but we did not see them in a real buying position," the statement added.
No show
Neymar fails to show up at PSG's pre-season training
Meanwhile, Neymar did not show up for PSG pre-season training, which got underway from Monday. Club director Leonardo Araujo said that this was unacceptable and would look for measures to deal with it. "He made commitments, but these dates were not agreed with PSG. His last match was June 6 and holidays were until July 8. Then, he did not come," he said.
Conversation
Leonardo refuses to divulge conversation details with Neymar
On being asked about his conversation with Neymar, Leonardo refused to divulge any details. Instead, he said that besides him, there were conversations with his entourage as well and everyone knows everything. "One thing is absolutely concrete, though, and that is that Neymar has three more years of contract with us. With no offer, there is nothing to discuss," he continued.
Quote
Leonardo looks to follow club procedures for action against Neymar
"In the case of Neymar, who was late for pre-season training, will it be the club's fault for not handling this? If the player arrives late, it is their fault. There are internal procedures that follow, so we will see how things go," Leonardo opined.
Rape allegations
Rape allegations against Neymar has made things difficult
It should also be noted that Neymar is currently undergoing an investigation following rape allegations by a woman. The woman accused Neymar of raping her in a Paris hotel this year. Neymar denied the allegations by releasing text messages and said it was consensual. However, this could also be a possible reason why teams are delaying the offer.
Author's take
Will Neymar leave PSG for Barca?
While the saga of Neymar's curious PSG exit continues, it looks likely that he would return to Barca, where he made a name for himself. However, Barca would need to come up with an offer for that to happen. It remains unsure if Barca would come up with a mega offer, but it is likely that they could add Philippe Coutinho in the deal.