Barcelona have released a statement about Neymar’s potential move to Paris Saint-Germain.
The Catalan club have confirmed that Neymar has asked to leave, opening the door for the player to join PSG in what will become a world record transfer.
Neymar was given permission to miss training earlier in the day.
Neymar Jr hasn't trained on Wednesday with the permission of the coach #FCBlive
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) August 2, 2017
PSG are expected to pay the Brazilian’s buy-out clause, worth €222m (£198m) and the player will reportedly sign a five-year deal worth €30m (£26.8m) a year after tax.
This would leave a bad taste in your mouth https://t.co/zVN26DSsTo
— FootballJOE (@FootballJOE) August 1, 2017
Barcelona then released a statement, which reads:
“Neymar Jr., accompanied by his father and representative, has informed FC Barcelona this morning his decision to leave the [club], at a meeting held in the club offices. In view of this position, the club has informed them that it refers to the termination clause of its current contract, which from July 1 is €222 million euros, and that it will have to be paid in full. On the other hand, in response to the claim for the collection of the renewal premium, the club has reiterated that it remains deposited before a notary until the resolution of the case. The player continues with a valid contract with FC Barcelona, ​​but with a temporary permit not to participate in the training sessions.”
Barcelona weren't ready for PSG's plan B… #Neymar pic.twitter.com/IfFIrWBDru
— JOE (@JOE_co_uk) August 2, 2017
In the statement, Barcelona referred to a loyalty bonus that was due to be paid to Neymar if he remained at the club beyond August 1. According to reports last week, Neymar’s father was due to receive a €27m (£23.3m) payment from the club for his role in son signing a new contract last October. This clause was said to be the reason why the transfer to PSG has been delayed.
However, there are reports that Barca will withhold the payment if, as expected, Neymar joins PSG.
https://twitter.com/cmwinterburn/status/892698765911617536
