Santos schedules Neymar’s July return while weighing his future at the club
Santos FC confirmed that Brazil star Neymar will report back to the club on 17 July, after a ten‑day break spent with his family in Orlando, United States. The 34‑year‑old forward, whose contract runs until 31 December 2026, will meet with the Santos board to discuss whether he will stay for the remainder of the season or seek a new challenge, amid interest from MLS side FC Cincinnati. The club said it needs a motivated Neymar to fulfil his contract, while also noting a R$ 90 million advance debt to NR Sports, the player’s image agency.
Separately, Santos announced that Argentine left‑back Gonzalo Escobar has agreed to extend his contract through the end of 2027 after becoming a regular starter following the departure of Souza. The renewal, pending only formal signatures, secures another key squad member for the upcoming campaign.
Both developments come as Santos sit in the lower half of Brazil’s Serie A, with upcoming league matches against Botafogo and other rivals.