By Gareth Platt : Subscribe to Gareth's RSS feed
March 8, 2013 1:01 PM GMT
Neymar is wanted by a host of Europe's leading clubs.
Brazilian superstar Neymar looks set to disappoint Chelsea and Manchester City, after hinting strongly that he will move to either Barcelona or Real Madrid.
In an interview with Barcelona newspaper El Mundo Deportivo, the Santos striker said playing in Europe "is a dream and continues to be, [but] I don't know whether it's certain or not. But don't worry, when I know where I'm going I will tell all of you."
However it appears the player prefers a move to La Liga. He said: "In Spain I have friends like Dani Alves, Adriano, Leo Baptistao, who I played with when I was very small and is a great friend of mine.
"From the national team I also know Flipe Luis, Jonas and Diego Alves - so I have many friends [in the Spanish league]."
When asked whether he would prefer a move to Madrid or Barcelona, Neymar replied: "I don't have a preference to play for one or the other. Both are great clubs, respected by all. Each has its own history, with marvellous footballers.
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"In the last few years, Barcelona have become feared around the world for their football. It's one of the best teams in the world."
In addition to Barcelona's reputatio, it appears Dani Alves could have a major say in Neymar's future destination.
The striker said that the Barcelona right-back "is chatting with me a lot about going with him. He speaks to me about the league, and the experience as well.He has always been a very good friend of mine."
Reports suggest both City and Chelsea are prepared to pay whatever it takes to sign Neymar. Last month, reports from Spain suggested City's chief executiveTxiki Begiristain met Neymar's agent Pini Zahavi in a London restaurant.
Chelsea are also searching for a new striker, as Fernando Torres continues to struggle at Stamford Bridge.It is reported the Blues will turn to Neymar if they are unable to secure top target Radamel Falcao.
However, El Mundo believes Barcelona already have 'a controlling agreement' in place which gives them first option on Neymar when he becomes available. http://www.ibtimes.co.uk/