Chelsea target Neymar 'could join Lionel Messi in US' after Mauricio Pochettino decision

Posted Wednesday, August 09, 2023 by Thesun.co.uk

The Brazil and PSG star has been linked with a move to join Lionel Messi in America, with Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino opting against bringing the 31-year-old to the Premier League.

Neymar could make a surprise move to join former Barcelona teammate Lionel Messi in MLS amid growing uncertainty at PSG. The Brazilian winger has been heavily linked with a transfer away from the Ligue 1 team for the last few windows and could now be set to make a move stateside.

Neymar has endured a turbulent time in Paris since his record-breaking £220million transfer from Barcelona in 2017. The Brazilian suffered several long-term injuries and has on occasion been booed by the Parisian supporters.

The 31-year-old has been consistently linked with a move away, including a move to Premier League giant Chelsea. However, it appears that the Blues' boss Mauricio Pochettino has no interest in the forward.

According to reports, Neymar could be available for as little as £60m. But the Argentinian coach has other targets higher up on the transfer list.

Chelsea target Neymar 'could join Lionel Messi in US' after Mauricio Pochettino decision
Messi and Neymar played alongside each other for two years at PSG and at Barcelona (Image: GETTY)

Neymar could instead by on his way to the United States. With Lionel Messi's arrival at Inter Miami taking the league by storm, scoring seven goals in four games, other teams are looking to strengthen.

According to Marca, New York City FC have expressed an interest as they look to remain competitive in MLS. The team are part of the City Football Group, owners of Manchester City, and could look to bring the winger to the club with his contract set to expire in 2025.

The Brazilian would follow in such footsteps as David Villa, Andrea Pirlo and Frank Lampard. Lampard also enjoyed a brief stint in the blue side of Manchester, and the possibility of doing the same could potentially sway Neymar to join the New York club.

Despite the links, Neymar has rejected the idea of a move away from PSG when back in late July he spoke with influencer Casimiro Miguel. "I hope to be at PSG," he said when quizzed about his future.

"I have a contract with PSG and so far no one has told me anything. Even if there is no love between the fans and the players, I will be there. With love or without love, but with Neymar."

Neymar's father, Neymar Santos Sr., has also shut down a potential move in an interview with PL Brasil. He said: "I cannot confirm news that did not happen." Neymar could be in line to feature for PSG when they start the season against FC Lorient at the Parc Des Princes on Aug. 12.