According to El Pais, Newcastle were prepared to spend heavily on Neymar over the summer, although only Chelsea came close to signing him.
Newcastle & Chelsea battled for Neymar
Well, the French news outlet believe PSG attempted to sell the Brazil international during the summer, as they felt he was hindering the side’s growth.
However, there were few realistic destinations for him, because the Parisians still owe Neymar €400m (£348m) as per the terms of his contract.
El Pais believe Newcastle were actually willing to ‘honour’ the £348m still owed to the South American, although the PSG No.10 felt a move to Tyneside would be ‘bleak’ and rejected the opportunity.
It is also said that Chelsea were the only side who made Neymar truly consider a potential exit from the Parc des Princes, although he eventually remained in Paris.
Since the dramatic summer of speculation, the 30-year-old has been in outstanding form for PSG so far this season.
In 16 appearances across all competitions, Neymar has scored 12 goals while also providing nine assists.
Newcastle & Chelsea both dodged a bullet
If the above story is true, Amanda Staveley and Todd Boehly definitely need to be better advised.
Just look at why PSG put Neymar on the market in the first place – they feel he hinders their chances of growth.
Therefore, with Staveley and Boehly both trying to grow Newcastle and Chelsea respectively, why would they want to sign someone who is already stunting the growth of another sporting project at PSG?
It simply makes no sense.
A £348m package for Neymar would block a lot of other avenues for Newcastle and Chelsea, while there is also no guarantee that it would pay off given the regular drama surround the Brazilian and his professionalism.
Hopefully, the Magpies, nor the Blues, go back in for Neymar in 2023.
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