Latest developments
- Neymar is expected to be leaving Al-Hilal in January.
- A move to any MLS club is third favourite with the bookmakers.
- Speculation of a reunion with Lionel Messi at Inter Miami is growing.
Whisper+ analysis
Authenticity (2/5): Bookies not always right
Rumours of a USA reunion with Lionel Messi and other former Barcelona teammates could become a reality for Neymar, as his future at Al-Hilal remains up in the air.
Bookmaker bet365 has made a move to any MLS club the third favourite at 10/1, though that is as short as 9/2 with other bookies, behind staying put at Al-Hilal and a move back to Brazil, with boyhood club Santos said to be exploring a possible return.
Value (3/5): Is he still the same?
Injury has ruined Neymar's time in the Middle East, making just seven appearances since becoming Al-Hilal's marquee signing in August 2023 for around £75 million.
His market value has dropped to a mere £12.4 million, and though the Blue Waves are prepared to take a big loss, Neymar will have to prove if he is worth any kind of fee.
Suitability (3.5/5): What can he offer Miami?
A move to the MLS might not mean a switch to the Herons, but if Neymar is to join Messi at Inter Miami and can get fit again, then he would be best dispatched on the left-wing position of a front three comprising of himself, Luis Suarez and Messi.
If only we had an idea if that forward line could work out…
Upgrade? (4/5): LW position up for grabs
Again, focusing on Inter Miami and depending on fitness, Brazil's all-time leading scorer should expect to walk into the starting XI, with no one able to nail down the left-wing role last season.
Finland international Robert Taylor was used there most often, with centre-midfielder Diego Gomez and Leo Afonso as back-ups.
Logic (3/5): Back in the shadows?
At 32 and having played so little recently, Neymar is very much in the autumn of his career and David Beckham's club can offer perhaps a last big payday and an end to a tough time in Saudi.
Reuniting with Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets as well as Messi and Suarez might seem exciting, but will “the prince who never became king” want to be back in Messi's shadow at a third different club?
Whisper+ verdict: 15.5/25
We don't have anything to go on other that odds, and there are plusses and minuses for Neymar on almost all aspects of this potential deal.
