Overview
- Santos confirmed a new contract keeping Neymar at Vila Belmiro until December 2026, ending his run of six‑month agreements and aligning with president Marcelo Teixeira’s term.
- The forward is rehabbing after left‑knee meniscus surgery and is targeting a return to action around February as he pushes to reenter Brazil’s World Cup plans.
- Reporting in Brazil says the renewal preserves an image‑rights pact with NR Sports and includes about R$85 million in payments through 2026.
- With Neymar secured, Santos advanced squad planning for 2026, with talks progressing on a loan for Gabriel ‘Gabigol’ Barbosa from Cruzeiro; later reports claim a one‑year loan with salary split and an option to buy is agreed, pending formal announcement.
- Club channels signaled his retention as outlets including ge and journalist Fabrizio Romano first reported the agreement before the confirmation.