The U.S. Major League Soccer (MLS) club FC Cincinnati has initiated preliminary negotiations to secure the transfer of Brazilian football star Neymar.
According to Operative Information Center-OMM, citing a report by The Athletic, the club's management is currently evaluating the financial demands of the 34-year-old forward, who is presently playing for the Brazilian side Santos.
However, the MLS representative faces a roster challenge regarding the league's designated player limits. Currently, all three designated player slots at the club are occupied by Kevin Denke, Miles Robinson, and Evander. To accommodate Neymar, the club would need to restructure its current roster to free up a spot for the world-renowned attacker.
Neymar's primary objective remains returning to the Brazilian national team for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. While his current contract with Santos runs until the end of 2026, a move to the United States is seen as a strategic step in his preparation for the tournament. FC Cincinnati is reportedly confident in its financial capabilities and is prepared to become the new home for the global icon.
The potential move comes at a time when MLS continues to attract high-profile international talent, following the successful integration of stars like Lionel Messi into the league. Such transfers are viewed as critical for increasing the commercial appeal and competitive level of football in North America ahead of the 2026 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
