Neymar became one of the most watched names ahead of the winter transfer window, such as his signing with Santosthat expires less than six months before the date World Cup 2026was nearing its end. Now that the deadline is in sight, the Brazil legend has now agreed to sign a new deal with the Fish.
As reported by Fabrizio Romano, Neymar Jr. has reached an agreement to extend his stay at Santos by one year. The deal ensures that even if he earns a place in Brazil’s 2026 squad World Cupthe legendary attacker will remain under contract with the club until December 2026.
The decision represents a shift from Neymar’s recent signing pattern since his return Santos in February, when he had typically signed six-month deals. In June he agreed to another short-term extension, running until the end of 2025, with his future again in question at the end of the year.
Reports from Globo Esporte indicate that Santos is expected to officially announce Neymar’s extension in the coming hours. The new deal will align the former Barcelona star’s contract term with that of current club president Marcelo Teixeira.
Santos FC president Marcelo Teixeira speaks together with Neymar da Silva Santos, the father of Neymar Jr.
Both Teixeira and Neymar da Silva Santos, Neymar Jr.’s father and agent, have had ongoing and productive talks over a new deal, but the club’s proximity to the relegation zone late in the season left the star’s future in doubt. Taking on a leadership role, Neymar tackled the situation head-on, registering five goals and one assist in the last four games to help Santos avoid the fall.
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With Santos having secured their place in Brazil’s top division and about to compete in continental play via the Copa Sudamericana, both sides moved quickly to finalize an agreement that will keep Neymar free for another campaign. As a result, the forward will not be looking for a move elsewhere in the near future, which is good news as he prepares for the World Cup while remaining a central figure at Santos.
When will Neymar return to play for Santos?
Neymar’s most recent performances proved heroic, not just because of his level on the pitch. but also because he suffered a medial meniscus injury that ultimately required surgery. With Santos’ players due to report on January 2, the Brazilian star is expected to miss the 2025 start and several early games of the season.
According to reports from Globo Esporte, Neymar is expected to be sidelined until mid-February. Given the need to regain match fitness and avoid setbacks, his most likely return date is February 25 against Vasco da Gama. If that timeline is pushed back, his comeback could instead take place on March 11 against Mirassol FC, just before the international window that could also see him return to action with Brazil.
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