Neymar on the verge of joining Barcelona

Real Madrid lost the battle for the signature of Santos wonderkid Neymar, after the Brazilian confirmed he agreed to join their bitter rivals Barcelona.

The 21-year-old striker is set to sign a new deal on Monday, after the South American club has given him a permission to leave them. It was widely expected that Neymar will remain at the club until World Cup finals in Brazil, however Santos changed their mind, despite recent announcements the player is going nowhere.

Neymar will sign a five-year deal with the recent crowned La Liga champions. The striker confirmed: “On Monday I’m signing a contract with Barcelona. My family and friends already know about my decision. I want to thank Santos’ fans for these nine incredible years. My feelings for the club and the fans will never change.”

“I want to thank the fans of Santos for these incredible nine years. My feeling for the club and the fans will never change. It is eternal! Only a club like Santos FC could give me everything I have experienced on and off the field. I thank the wonderful fans who supported me even in the most difficult moments. Titles, goals, dribbling, celebrations and songs that fans created for me will be forever in my heart…” he added.