Barcelona eye Neymar return as United plan new deal for Maguire

Barcelona is reportedly contemplating a move to bring Brazilian superstar Neymar back to the Camp Nou.

As reported by Spanish publication Sport on Thursday, the potential transfer is being considered an alternative option should the Catalans fail to secure their primary target, Erling Haaland, from Manchester City.

Barcelona have identified Haaland as their “top priority” for the summer of 2025, but the possibility of reuniting with Neymar presents an intriguing opportunity.

The 32-year-old Brazilian, currently with Al Hilal, will become a free agent when his contract expires next summer, allowing him to choose his next destination without transfer fees.

With hopes of being selected for Brazil’s 2026 FIFA World Cup squad, a return to Barcelona could be the perfect way for him to stay match-ready in the months leading up to the tournament.

“Neymar is currently preparing for his return to action, having spent a year on the sidelines after rupturing his cruciate ligament,” ESPN said in a post on Thursday.

Meanwhile, in England, Manchester United is taking steps to secure the future of defender Harry Maguire.

According to Football Insider, the Red Devils are preparing to offer the 31-year-old center-back a one-year extension to his current contract. Maguire, who joined United for a substantial £80m fee from Leicester in 2018, has seen his role diminish at Old Trafford in recent seasons.

“The England international almost left to join West Ham for £30m last summer but the move collapsed and United are now looking to trigger an extension to his deal so he doesn’t leave for free at the end of the season,” ESPN reported.