Neymar's Agent to Meet with FC Cincinnati Over Potential MLS Move

The Brazilian star continues training at Santos to regain fitness ahead of 2026 World Cup consideration.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 11:08pm

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A fractured, cubist-style painting depicting Neymar's soccer skills and movements through sharp, overlapping geometric shapes and planes in vibrant colors, conceptually representing the player's dual focus on his MLS future and World Cup aspirations.Neymar's potential move to MLS would bring one of the world's top talents to the United States, but his priority remains earning a spot on Brazil's 2026 World Cup squad.Cincinnati Today

Neymar's father and agent is set to hold talks with FC Cincinnati representatives to discuss a potential move to Major League Soccer, despite the player's current focus on regaining full fitness with his Brazilian club Santos.

Why it matters

Neymar's potential MLS transfer would be a major coup for the league, bringing one of the world's top talents to the United States. However, the player's priority remains earning a spot in Brazil's 2026 World Cup squad, requiring him to prove his fitness after a recent injury layoff.

The details

According to reports, Neymar's agent will meet with FC Cincinnati officials in the coming days to discuss contract terms and the viability of a deal. While financial details have not been disclosed, the meeting aims to assess Neymar's salary expectations and bonus structure. Cincinnati's delegation, including the club president, sporting director, and image rights specialists, will make the trip to advance the negotiations.

  • Neymar played for Santos last Saturday in a 1-0 win over Atletico Mineiro.
  • Santos face Recoleta on Tuesday in the Copa Sudamericana, followed by Fluminense next Sunday and Coritiba on April 22 in the Copa do Brasil.

The players

Neymar

A Brazilian professional footballer who plays as a forward for Brazilian club Santos and the Brazil national team.

Jeff Berding

The president and owner of FC Cincinnati.

Chris Albright

The sporting director of FC Cincinnati.

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What they’re saying

“Neymar filled his tank, and Gabigol did too. They performed well in the match. It might have been their best game in terms of competitive and physical levels.”

— Cuca, Santos head coach

“The trend is for him to keep playing; he doesn't need to play the full 90 minutes. We'll manage his workload so they are ready to go every three days.”

— Cuca, Santos head coach

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

Neymar's potential move to MLS would be a major boost for the league, but the player's primary focus remains on regaining full fitness and earning a spot in Brazil's 2026 World Cup squad, which will require him to prove he can withstand the physical demands of a rigorous match schedule.