PSG's Neymar edges closer to sensational Barcelona return this summer

Neymar is getting closer to Barcelonna. After weeks of tension, the operation is moving along. Barcelona and PSG are negotiating his return to Camp Nou and it could happen via a loan with an option to buy. There could be a definitive agreement next week, even. The player's stance has been key. There's still caution on both sides, but Barça are and Neymar's entourage are optimistic that the deal can be done this summer. 

It's not been easy because PSG have always been against Neymar leaving the club for less than they paid. They have been clear that he wanted to leave, though, and that's been made obvious. First of all, their president, Nasser Al-Khelaïfi, expressed his unhappiness at Neymar and opened the door for an exit. Later, coach Thomas Tuchel and sporting director Leonardo did the same, laying the path for a deal. 

problem

The key was finding a buyer and they soon realised he only wanted to listen to Barça. They offered him to other powerful clubs in Europe but no one bit. And Neymar made it clear: Camp Nou. PSG stood strong, though, demanding 300 million euros for the transfer. Then, 180 million after saying no to an exchange. But now the club has to admit they have a serious problem with a player that earns 40 million euros a season. 

Barça spoke with PSG through intermediaries. But finally they went direct. They've never recognised it publicly, but the Blaugrana made it clear they are not in a position to pay a huge fee. The only option was a player exchange or a loan with an option to buy. And the second option has been chosen by both parties. 

OFFERED

PSG weren't convinced by the players on offer. Neither Umtiti nor Coutinho were in their plans. Nor Malcom. The only player who could fit in is Ivan Rakitic and it is probabe that he could move there in a separate deal. Everything is being talked about at the moment and the idea is to have things ready as soon as possible. An agreement is possible, but things could yet break down, although Neymar's desire to get things done makes a step back unlikely. 

For everything to happen, Neymar will have to take a wage cut. Not just this year, but in the following years when the deal is finalised. The footballer has already reached an agreement with Barça. There will be movement in the coming days. Neymar's entourage is in Paris waiting for things to progress. PSG want it sorted before Aug. 11.

NON-EU SPOT 

Barça stepped things up this week. Moving Malcom on means there is now a third non-EU spot in the squad available.