Newcastle United have been tentatively linked with an ambitious summer move for Neymar, and it looks like the Paris Saint-Germain superstar could be on the move.
It was suggested last week that Neymar is a target for the Newcastle owners, with 90min stating that PIF want to bring the 31-year-old to St James’ Park as a statement signing.
Talk of the Brazilian moving to Tyneside seems farfetched, but was always going to be inevitable when rumours began to circulate that he could be leaving the French capital.
And a new report from ESPN has provided a fresh update on Neymar’s future after claims Newcastle could try to sign him.
PSG willing to let Neymar leave on loan
According to ESPN, Neymar wants to leave PSG as he believes he is no longer wanted there and it is best for him to change clubs ahead of next season. This comes after fans travelled to his house and demanded that he leaves the club.
The report adds that PSG would be willing to let the superstar forward leave on loan, and are willing to accommodate a temporary exit if it includes an option to buy the following year.
ESPN also state that Neymar would prefer a move to the Premier League – which is exactly where Newcastle are.
Too much money for Newcastle
In a fantasy world, a move to Newcastle makes sense. He is one of the biggest names in world football, and would be the marquee signing that PIF are looking for. We could also be playing in the Champions League, which would make a move to the North East much more appealing.
There is also the Brazilian factor too. Neymar has played alongside Bruno Guimaraes, while Joelinton is a huge fan. He described Neymar as an ‘idol’ last year, and invited him to sign for the Magpies.
However, it just is not going to happen. Eddie Howe has already said as much this month, admitting players like Neymar would cost the club too much money.
And that is exactly where the problem lies. Away from a transfer fee, the winger’s wage demands would be through the roof. ESPN state that he earns almost £35million-a-year in wages in Paris, which equates to around £670,000-a-week. That is six times more than what Newcastle’s Kieran Trippier gets.
That figure alone proves why he is not coming to Newcastle – even if a loan deal is an option.
Receive a digest of our best Newcastle content each week direct to your mailbox
