Neymar’s proposed move to Barcelona appeared to take a new turn today when Andre Cury, the agent who handles much of the club’s transfer business in South America, revealed they hope to begin negotiations this summer.
Neymar, 21, is regarded as one of the brightest talents of his generation and his future has been a favoured topic among speculators for the past two seasons.
While Premier League sides Chelsea and Manchester City have been linked with the Brazilian striker’s signature, Barcelona are very much at the front of the queue.
Despite numerous reports linking Neymar with an eventual move to the Camp Nou – as well as various claims from agents, coaches and even Neymar Snr – Barca have remained insistent that no deal is in place.
However, the recent claims from Cury would suggest that Neymar’s switch to Barcelona is a mere formality, and while any move is expected to be on hold until after the 2014 World Cup, the agent admits the Catalans would move for the striker earlier if possible.
“He is top of the wish list for planned signings and our players are aware of this,” Cury told Radio Globo. “At Barcelona we do not usually sign many players, and he is our first choice. When he decides to leave Santos, we will be ready.”
He added: “We want Neymar. If need be we’ll wait till after the World Cup. But, if possible, we will start negotiations this summer.
“Messi, Xavi and Iniesta are already awaiting him with open arms.”
Cury also believes that the arrival of Neymar would lighten the burden on Messi, adding: “Neymar coming to Barcelona will put an end to two types of overdependence: dependence on Neymar at Santos, as he would have left, and overdependence on Messi at Barcelona, as we would then have another player at his level.”
Not only does Cury reveal Barcelona’s strong interest in signing Neymar, but he insists the club view the Santos superstar as the club’s next torch-bearer, following in the footsteps of a series of era-defining footballers.
He said: “In two or three years Messi will be able to pass on the Barcelona baton to Neymar, just like Ronaldinho passed it to him, even if this happened in a way that was not altogether pleasing to us – Ronnie left the club and we would have liked him to have stayed.”
READ MORE:
– Mystery payments hint at Barcelona deal for Neymar
– Neymar Snr admits son would prefer Barcelona switch to Man City or Chelsea
– A marketing dream: Neymar to Barcelona makes sense to Camp Nou chief
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