FC Cincinnati Eyes Neymar as MLS Buzz Builds Around Brazilian Star
APPLETON, Wis. — In a move that could reshape Major League Soccer's landscape, FC Cincinnati has initiated talks with representatives of Brazilian soccer icon Neymar, exploring the possibility of bringing the former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain forward to the United States, according to sources familiar with the discussions.
The interest from Cincinnati, one of MLS's rising powers, comes as the league continues to attract global talent amid its growing popularity. A source told ESPN's Nathalia Ferrão on Thursday that the club has contacted Neymar's camp to assess his interest in a potential transition to MLS and to discuss the financial parameters needed for such a blockbuster signing. This development was first reported by The Athletic, highlighting Cincinnati's ambition to compete at the highest level.
Neymar, 32, returned to his boyhood club Santos last year after a storied career in Europe that included stints at Barcelona, where he formed a lethal attacking trio with Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez, and Paris Saint-Germain, where he won multiple Ligue 1 titles. His contract with Santos runs through the end of 2026, following a one-year extension signed in December 2023. Despite his global fame, Neymar has faced injury challenges that have limited his playing time, including a recent knee issue that sidelined him for the past two weeks.
In just six appearances for Santos this year, Neymar has already made an impact, scoring three goals and providing three assists. However, his availability has been hampered by the knee injury, which prompted a procedure during the recent international break. Santos coach Cuca addressed the situation on Tuesday, stating that the treatment was designed to get Neymar "be raring to go" ahead of the 2026 World Cup in June.
The timing of Cincinnati's inquiry aligns with Neymar's uncertain international future. He has not been called up to the Brazil national team since October 2023, missing recent qualifiers and friendlies. Brazil, the five-time World Cup champions, played two exhibition matches during the March international window, suffering a 2-1 loss to France before rebounding with a 3-1 victory over Croatia.
Brazil's head coach, Carlo Ancelotti, has been vocal about Neymar's potential role in the upcoming tournament. Ancelotti has said repeatedly that Neymar "would be considered for selection for the World Cup roster if he was fully fit." This endorsement underscores the player's enduring importance to the Seleção, even after a period of absence due to injuries and form concerns.
FC Cincinnati's pursuit of Neymar fits into a broader trend in MLS, where clubs have increasingly targeted high-profile international stars to boost visibility and competitiveness. The league has seen successes with players like Lionel Messi at Inter Miami and Sergio Busquets, drawing record crowds and elevating the profile of American soccer. Cincinnati, fresh off a strong 2023 season that saw them win the Supporters' Shield as the league's top regular-season team, appears poised to join this elite group.
Sources indicate that any final decision on Neymar's future would likely wait until after the 2026 World Cup, regardless of whether he participates for Brazil. The tournament, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, represents a pivotal moment for MLS, with all 48 matches set to be played on North American soil. A strong showing by Brazil could further fuel interest in Neymar stateside, but his commitment to Santos through 2026 complicates immediate moves.
Financially, signing Neymar would be a monumental undertaking. His salary at PSG reportedly exceeded $40 million annually, and while MLS operates under a salary cap, designated player slots allow for exceptions. Cincinnati, backed by ownership with deep pockets, has already invested in stars like Luciano Acosta, the 2023 MLS MVP, who led the team to 74 points in the regular season.
From Neymar's perspective, a move to MLS could offer a new chapter after years of injury-plagued seasons in Europe. At Santos, he has rediscovered some joy in the game, scoring in his debut match upon returning in January. Yet, the allure of Major League Soccer's family-friendly environment and the chance to play in front of passionate U.S. fans might appeal, especially as he approaches the later stages of his career.
Representatives for both Neymar and FC Cincinnati have declined to comment publicly on the reports. However, the source emphasized that the discussions remain in early stages, focused primarily on gauging feasibility rather than negotiating terms. MLS Commissioner Don Garber has long advocated for marquee signings to grow the league, noting in a recent interview that "stars like these elevate the entire competition."
The potential transfer also raises questions about Santos' stance. The Brazilian club, which developed Neymar from a teenage prodigy into a global sensation, views him as a key asset. President Marcelo Teixeira has expressed pride in the player's return, but financial pressures in South American soccer could make a lucrative deal tempting.
Beyond the pitch, Neymar's off-field influence is immense. With over 200 million Instagram followers, his arrival in MLS could generate millions in merchandise sales and sponsorships for Cincinnati, based in the vibrant soccer market of Ohio. The club plays at TQL Stadium, a state-of-the-art venue that hosted sold-out crowds during their 2023 campaign.
As the 2024 MLS season progresses, with Cincinnati currently vying for a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference, this story adds intrigue to an already exciting league. Whether Neymar ultimately makes the leap remains speculative, but the mere exploration signals MLS's maturation on the world stage.
Looking ahead, the 2026 World Cup looms large. For Neymar, regaining full fitness will be crucial not just for club duties but for a shot at adding to Brazil's trophy cabinet. Ancelotti's faith in him, coupled with Cuca's optimism, suggests the star is motivated to return to peak form. Meanwhile, FC Cincinnati's front office continues to scout talent, positioning the club as a destination for the world's best.
In the end, this overture from Cincinnati underscores the evolving dynamics of global soccer, where borders are blurring and opportunities abound. Fans in Appleton and beyond will watch closely as this saga unfolds, potentially marking another milestone in MLS's ascent.