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Negotiations between Neymar and FC Cincinnati have picked up significantly over the last few days, according to ESPN Brazil, with the Brazilian star's father now involved in the discussions.
The 33-year-old forward was initially connected to the MLS club last Thursday, with talks understood to be in their earliest stages; however, Neymar's camp—including his father, Neymar Sr.—is now set to hold face-to-face meetings with Cincinnati co-CEO Jeff Berding, general manager Chris Albright, and an image rights specialist team to discuss financial specifics and establish the conditions required to bring the star to the United States. One major hurdle to address is that the MLS club already has all three of its Designated Player slots tied up in existing long-term deals.
Neymar remains contracted to his hometown club, Santos of the Brazilian Serie A, through the end of this year; however, FC Cincinnati is eager to secure the Brazilian's arrival during MLS's summer transfer window, following the 2026 World Cup, in which Neymar could potentially participate.
Alternatively, Cincinnati could hold off until Neymar's contract runs out and bring him in at the beginning of the 2027 MLS spring season.
What Neymar Would Bring to FC Cincinnati?
Beyond the undeniable star power and media attention that Neymar—Brazil's all-time top scorer with 79 goals after overtaking Pelé in 2023—would bring to FC Cincinnati, his attacking ability could complement that of fellow Brazilian Evander, who currently holds a Designated Player spot at the club.
Having battled persistent injuries in recent seasons, Neymar appears to have rediscovered his form, netting three goals and contributing two assists across four outings for Santos since making his return to the field in late February.
His resurgent scoring form has been impressive enough for Brazil head coach Carlo Ancelotti to revisit the idea of including Neymar in his final World Cup squad, which would represent the forward's fourth World Cup appearance (2014, 2018, 2022).
FC Cincinnati currently sit 10th in the Eastern Conference, having managed just 10 goals in their opening seven games. Neymar's arrival could give their attack a significant boost.
The former FC Barcelona icon would also join a growing list of football legends who have made the move to America's top division in the latter stages of their careers. Lionel Messi helped popularize the trend in 2023 when he joined Inter Miami, and French forward Antoine Griezmann is the most recent to follow, having signed with Orlando City last month.