Santos: No Neymar deal with Real

Santos president Luis Alvaro Ribeiro has dismissed claims that Neymar has agreed to join Real Madrid in January.

Reports on Wednesday had suggested Jose Mourinho’s side were closing in on the 19-year-old’s signature for a fee of 53 million euros.

However, the latest batch of rumours has forced the Brazilian club’s patron to publicly declare that no such move is currently in the pipeline.

“There is no agreement with Real Madrid,” Ribeiro told Catalan station Ona FM.

“We still have the intention of keeping Neymar for the time being. Madrid can offer figures close to his release clause, but we are not a commercial company and Santos are not interested in the money.”

“We have no interest in selling, and I think a renewal is possible. He has a contract until 2015 but we are willing to improve his terms, as we will do everything for him to stay with us.”

“However, we are open to the will of player.”

Ribeiro then discussed the chances that Neymar would move to Barcelona after he was asked where he would prefer the player to go if he did leave.

“I am trying to set up a dinner date with (Barcelona president) Sandro Rosell, as he is my friend. I feel great sympathy for Barcelona.”

“However, Real Madrid are a great club as well, as they wear white like Santos – but Catalunya and Barcelona have a place in my heart.”

Neymar has netted 11 times in 18 appearances in the Brazilian Serie A this season.