Neymar in shock MLS talks with unlikely club

April 10, 2026 Oliver Obel

Fresh uncertainty is surrounding Neymar’s future, with a potential move to Major League Soccer now under consideration despite his recent return to Brazilian football.

The 34-year-old forward, currently back at Santos, has drawn renewed attention after a strong start to the domestic season. His performances come at a time when questions are growing about his next step, particularly after he was omitted from Carlo Ancelotti’s latest Brazil squad ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

According to The Athletic, an MLS club has already explored the possibility of signing Neymar, holding internal talks to evaluate whether a deal would be feasible. While the team has not been officially named, the report indicates that FC Cincinnati are currently the most serious contenders.

If a move were to materialize, Neymar could find himself lining up against former Barcelona teammates Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez, who are now at Inter Miami—adding another layer of intrigue to a potential switch to the United States.

Cincinnati’s interest represents a shift from the league’s more typical recruitment patterns. Unlike clubs such as LA Galaxy or Inter Miami, the Ohio-based side has not historically built its identity around global superstars. However, investment in infrastructure and growing financial capacity appear to have opened the door to a deal of this scale.

There are still practical hurdles to overcome. Cincinnati’s three designated player slots are currently occupied by Kévin Denkey, Miles Robinson and Evander, meaning significant roster adjustments would be required before any move could proceed.

Interest from MLS is not entirely new. The Athletic previously reported that Chicago Fire held advanced discussions with Neymar in 2025 following his departure from Al Hilal, though a transfer did not materialize at the time.

On the pitch, Cincinnati could benefit from a marquee signing. The team has struggled for consistency early in the season, managing just two wins from six matches and falling behind the Eastern Conference leaders. A player of Neymar’s profile would not only strengthen the squad but also deliver substantial commercial impact.

Even in the later stages of his career, Neymar remains one of football’s most recognizable figures. He first rose to prominence with Santos before securing a move to Barcelona in 2013, where he became part of one of the sport’s most celebrated attacking trios. His subsequent transfer to Paris Saint-Germain, still the most expensive in football history, further elevated his global status.

Any club considering a move is therefore weighing more than just on-field contribution. Neymar represents a rare combination of elite technical ability and worldwide market appeal—attributes that continue to attract interest, even as his career enters a new phase.

Sources: The Athletic