Barcelona are reportedly plotting an ambitious double swoop to land both Manchester City striker Erling Haaland and former star Neymar in a blockbuster transfer window.
According to reports, the Catalan giants are eyeing a stunning return for Neymar to the Nou Camp—but only if they can’t secure the signature of Haaland, Europe’s most in-demand forward. Despite Manchester City’s firm stance that their Norwegian talisman is “untouchable,” Barcelona have placed him at the top of their wish list.
Since joining City from Borussia Dortmund in 2022, Haaland has been a scoring machine, netting 101 goals in just 107 appearances. His goal-scoring feats have caught the eye of several clubs, including long-term admirers Real Madrid. However, Barcelona, under new manager Hansi Flick, have made Haaland their “top priority” for next summer as they look to re-establish their dominance in La Liga.
Yet, landing Haaland would be no easy feat for Barcelona, who have struggled with financial difficulties in recent years. It’s unlikely City would entertain offers for their star striker, given his central role in Pep Guardiola’s team.
With the potential roadblocks in signing Haaland, Barcelona are also considering bringing Neymar back into the fold. The Brazilian forward, now 32, previously dazzled at the Nou Camp during a highly successful four-year stint before his record-breaking €222million (£200m) transfer to Paris Saint-Germain in 2017.
Neymar, currently playing for Saudi Pro League club Al-Hilal, is set to become a free agent in 2025 when his contract expires. Barcelona sees this as an opportunity for a reunion. Neymar is reportedly eyeing a return to top European football to bolster his chances of representing Brazil in the 2026 World Cup, and a second spell at Barcelona could help him achieve that.
The Brazilian made 186 appearances and scored 105 goals for Barcelona before his departure. While Flamengo, a top Brazilian side, has also expressed interest in signing him after his Saudi stint, Neymar might be tempted by another run at European glory.
As Barcelona explore these two massive signings, they remain focused on building a squad that can challenge for both domestic and European titles under Flick. Meanwhile, Manchester City, fresh off their Champions League triumph, are determined to retain their European crown as they navigate a new, expanded format of the competition.
With Haaland’s future under speculation and Neymar’s potential return on the horizon, Barcelona are setting up for what could be a summer of seismic transfers.
