MLS and teams begin pursuit of Neymar

The Brazilian superstar is the target of another high-profile MLS acquisition.

Coming off another season featuring a major injury, PSG and Neymar are actively working towards a “solution” to the situation at the Parc des Princes. Both player and the club are in mutual agreement that parting ways would be ideal.

Neymar, 31, has been with the Parisians since his world-record move in 2017. Although he arrived with much fanfare and enthusiasm, it has been a turbulent time in the French capital. Injuries and constant drama have both sides exploring their options for a potential exit as soon as possible.

With Neymar entering the market, MLS is keen to bring another global super to North America following Lionel Messi’s triumphant arrival. French outlet L’Equipe has reported one of the Los Angeles teams has already formally approached Neymar’s camp with a proposal.

To be signed, the league will surely help to fund the move through its partnerships, similar to the Messi deal. Also like Messi, Neymar’s salary will mean the Santos product must be registered as a Designated Player. As things stand LAFC has an open DP spot, while the LA Galaxy’s three spots are occupied by the injured Javier “Chicarito” Hernández, Douglas Costa, and Riqui Puig. But just like Rodolfo Pizzaro at Inter Miami, the Galaxy will likely have no problem cutting bait with Costa or Hernandez sooner than expected if it means signing Neymar.

For Neymar to join before the winter transfer window opens, Neymar would have to become a free agent through contract termination. As the summer window closed last week, MLS clubs can not complete incoming transfers from foreign clubs.

On the Radar

MLS is not alone in regards to their interest in Neymar. Saudi Pro League’s Al-Hilal and a handful of clubs in the Premier League have registered interest in the 31-year-old. Meanwhile, Barcelona is monitoring the situation.

For good reason, Neymar should find himself a hot commodity on the open market. Despite his injury-plagued tenure in France, Neymar is still one of soccer’s greatest entertainers with plenty of end product to go with it.

Across his six seasons with PSG, the versatile forward scored 118 goals and added 77 assists in 173 appearances. At international level, he’s also remained productive when fit. For Brazil, Neymar has put up 25 goals and 24 assists as his country’s focal point.

Signing Neymar would prove a monumental coup for the league. Five years younger than Messi, Neymar should have plenty more to give. Beyond his talent, his status will draw more attention to the league as it normalizes these signings.

For Neymar, he’ll get a lucrative contract in a marquee city. If it is Los Angeles, the city’s atmosphere and nightlife will suit Brazil’s all-time leading scorer well. If defenses give him as much space as Messi, he may even be able to extend his career.