Neymar is poised to sign a short six-month contract with his boyhood club, Santos, marking an emotional return to the place where his remarkable journey in football began in 2009. This return has been confirmed by Santos' president, Marcelo Teixeira.

"The time has come, Neymar. The time has come for you to return to your people. To your home, to our beloved club," Teixeira expressed warmly. "Welcome back, Ney boy!... Come and be happy again in the sacred jersey. The Santos nation awaits you with open arms."

Neymar's contract with Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal was mutually terminated on Monday, concluding an injury-ridden 18-month period in Riyadh. During his time at Al Hilal, which began in August 2023, Neymar made only seven appearances despite earning a reported annual salary of around $104 million.

Neymar, who rose through the ranks of the Santos academy, made 225 appearances for the Brazilian Serie A side, scoring 136 goals.