Neymar Drops Bombshell: Reveals He's "Very Close" to Shocking Club World Cup Transfer

Neymar has disclosed that he had the opportunity to participate in the expanded FIFA Club World Cup this summer following constructive discussions with Fluminense.

The Brazilian superstar was originally set to compete in the tournament representing Al Hilal before his contract was terminated by the Saudi Pro League outfit in January, after an unsuccessful 18-month period marred by fitness issues. He subsequently returned to his boyhood club Santos, though there was potential for another quick departure.

The football legend has shared that Fluminense expressed interest in signing him specifically for their Club World Cup participation, with negotiations coming remarkably close to fruition.

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"My physical condition is good. We engaged in discussions with several clubs regarding participation in the [Club] World Cup, and the Fluminense opportunity was extremely close to materializing, but I chose to remain and focus on additional training," Neymar stated during an appearance on Flow Podcast.

"I'm physically at 100%, but I need further improvement to return in optimal condition," he continued, emphasizing that his desire to enhance match readiness was the primary consideration.

The 33-year-old Neymar was dealing with a hamstring injury during April and May, and has made just two appearances for Santos since overcoming that physical setback.

His decision to remain committed to Santos, where he spent a decade from 2003–2013, earned recognition from Fluminense president Mario Bittencourt.

Bittencourt shared with ESPN: "Neymar explicitly expressed strong interest, but indicated that currently he was entirely concentrated on his rehabilitation and assisting Santos in overcoming their current challenges.

"He is a player who developed at Santos, and I believe this represents a very admirable and honorable stance. He conducted himself with great dignity toward us as well, ensuring he spoke with us directly to explain his reasons for declining at this time.

"Naturally, should future opportunities arise, he remains a marquee name and exceptional talent. In my opinion, he should rejoin the national squad at the earliest opportunity, once he achieves complete recovery."

Fluminense, whose roster includes Thiago Silva and former Santos talent and Neymar peer Ganso, opened their Club World Cup campaign with a respectable 0–0 stalemate against Borussia Dortmund and appear well-positioned to advance to the elimination rounds, competing alongside Mamelodi Sundowns and Ulsan HD.