Real Madrid first spoke to Neymar's representatives back in March

More and more is coming to light regarding Neymar's summer transfer saga. Whilst the Brazilian decides what the next step in his future is, the decision to leave PSG was made months ago. Real Madrid spoke with the player's representatives back in March to discuss his availability. Neymar let Madrid know that he was desperate to escape his Paris hell and that the two sides would talk again in the future. Not long after that conversation, Ney spoke to Barça about completing a sensation return to the Camp Nou.

Madrid had already tried to sign Neymar last summer but PSG were firm in their stance that he wouldn't be let go. Florentino Perez, who wanted to keep his positive relationship with the hierarchy at the French giants in place, released several official statements denying deals or talks had taken place over Neymar. This was whilst Madrid were searching for a high-profile replacement for Cristiano Ronaldo.

They were confident a deal could be possible for Neymar this summer after that initial conversation in March. However, this wasn't seen as a priority signing by Zinedine Zidane as he wanted Paul Pogba to overhaul his midfield and Neymar was kept on the backburner.

Madrid also knew that Neymar was talking with Barça but they felt, remaining in the race for his signature, they would have a chance of getting a deal done. Florentino knew negotiating with PSG would be the easy part but the concern was whether the footballer would sign for the rivals of his former side. Time will tell.