Rafael Nogueira
FC Cincinnati Initiates Early Talks with Neymar’s Representatives
FC Cincinnati has begun preliminary negotiations with the entourage of Brazilian star Neymar da Silva, positioning itself as a potential destination following his departure from Santos in December 2026. According to The Athletic, these discussions remain exploratory, designed to assess the player’s interest and contract expectations.
The Cincinnati-based franchise, competing in Major League Soccer, views the signing as strategically significant and has initiated internal assessments regarding technical and financial viability. The club projects itself as an attractive landing spot for international talent, leveraging its financial infrastructure and modern training facilities.
Designated Player Slot Constraint
A substantial barrier currently exists: FC Cincinnati lacks an available Designated Player slot, the MLS mechanism permitting teams to circumvent the salary cap for premium acquisitions. Kevin Denkey, Miles Robinson, and Evander occupy the three existing spots through season’s end under long-term agreements.
The club could resolve this by offloading one player next summer. Denkey represents the most viable candidate, with multiple European clubs already expressing interest in the forward.
Neymar’s MLS Landscape: Star-Studded Prospect
This initiative is not Cincinnati’s first pursuit of elite talent. Chicago Fire engaged in substantive negotiations with Neymar when he departed Al Hilal in 2025, though he ultimately returned to his boyhood club.
Should Neymar transition to MLS, he would encounter several accomplished European veterans. Antoine Griezmann is expected to join Orlando next summer. Most significantly, Lionel Messi currently plays for Inter Miami, reuniting the former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain teammates.
Read also: Napoli Opens €30 Million Talks with Benfica Over Midfielder Richard Rios
World Cup Fitness Race
Neymar faces a compressed timeline. His Santos contract runs through December 2026, coinciding with his push to regain fitness for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, scheduled across the United States, Mexico, and Canada. The Brazilian federation excluded him from friendly matches last March, underscoring the urgency of his rehabilitation program.
Follow TipsGG for developments on this emerging transfer saga as the summer window approaches.