Neymar has officially signed with Saudi Arabian club Al Hilal in a two-year deal that’s reported to bring him a guaranteed $300 million USD, according to independent soccer reporter Fabrizio Romano.
The deal has the potential to be bumped up to $400 million USD over two years through commercial deals with the soccer club.
According to Romano, Paris Saint-Germain, where Neymar played for six years, was paid $102 million USD in exchange for the Brazilian player.
Al Hilal is one of four clubs owned by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, in addition to Al Nassr, Al Ahli and Al Ittihad. While the exact details of Neymar’s contract weren’t revealed, the club shared a video of his signing to social media.
“I have achieved a lot in Europe and enjoyed special times, but I have always wanted to be a global player and test myself with new challenges and opportunities in new places,” Neymar said.
“I want to write new sporting history, and the Saudi Pro League has tremendous energy and quality players at the moment. I have heard a lot and learned that I am following a long list of Brazilian players who have played in Saudi Arabia over the years, so I believe it is the desired place.
“Al Hilal is a giant club with fantastic fans, and it is the best in Asia. This gives me a feeling that it is the right decision for me at the right time with the right club. I love winning and scoring goals, and I plan to continue doing that in Saudi Arabia and with Al Hilal.”
In other sports news, Nike launched its Accelerator Program to drive equality in sports.
