Brazil's Neymar to sign with Barcelona

Brazil's gifted World Cup hope Neymar is moving to Spanish champion Barcelona, the striker said on Saturday, and will sign a contract on Monday.

Neymar chose Barcelona over its Spanish rival Real Madrid after Santos ended three years of resisting offers for the 21-year-old forward and let him go before next year's tournament in Brazil.

"On Monday, I'm signing a contract with Barcelona," Neymar said on his Instagram page.

"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," he added.

"I made a point of playing tomorrow's match in Brasilia. I want the opportunity to enter the pitch once more with the 'mantle' (Santos' shirt) and hear the fans shout my name."

Santos plays Flamengo at the capital's completely refurbished World Cup stadium in its opening match of the Brazilian championship on Sunday.

The club said on Friday it had agreed to transfer Neymar, letting him choose between two offers.

Folha de Sao Paulo newspaper put the latest offer from Barcelona at 74 million Brazilian Real ($36.12 million).

Neymar, regarded as former Santos and Brazil great Pele's heir, will play alongside Argentine ace Lionel Messi, FIFA World Player of the Year for the last four years, at Barcelona.

The Spanish champion is looking to revamp its stellar squad after what by its high standards is a slump during which it has been eliminated from the European Champions League at the semifinal stage for the last two seasons.

(China Daily 05/27/2013 page23)