Neymar made a significant impact upon his return to Santos, but an inconsistent season marked by injuries hasn’t kept the forward out of the international spotlight. Despite being 33 years old, the iconic number 10 remains a highly valued player. European clubs have initiated inquiries to assess the possibility of making a move as early as January 2026. This update comes from Fabrizio Romano, a journalist with expertise in football transfer news.
According to Romano, the situation has drawn attention because Neymar could become a free agent as of January 1st. His contract with Santos is set to expire on December 31st, making it feasible for clubs to acquire him without any transfer fee. This development is taking place at a time when Santos finds itself striving to avoid relegation and heavily relying on Neymar during the crucial final stages of the Brasileirão.
The journalist revealed that European clubs have started exploring the player’s status. While no formal negotiations have begun, Neymar’s ability to sign as a free agent has opened significant opportunities in the market. “Neymar is committed to helping Santos and is fully focused on that objective, but he will be available as a free agent at the beginning of January. It’s something worth keeping an eye on,” Romano told the newspaper A Bola.
Santos is keeping a close eye on these developments while still relying on Neymar’s contributions on the pitch. The club’s management understands how challenging it might be to retain their number 10 amidst growing external interest. For now, Neymar remains focused on helping the team avoid relegation and has opted not to discuss his future publicly. Once the Brasileirão concludes, discussions are expected to gain momentum.