SAO PAULO (AP) ― Neymar said Saturday he will be joining Barcelona after the Confederations Cup, the latest addition to a star-filled roster that already includes four-time FIFA Player of the Year Lionel Messi, Xavi Hernandez and Andres Iniesta.
The decision came a day after Neymar’s Brazilian club, Santos, said it had accepted offers from Barcelona and Spanish rival Real Madrid, and that it was up to him to pick where he wanted to play.
The 21-year-old striker made the announcement on Twitter and Instagram.
“I wouldn’t be able to wait until Monday. My friends and my family already know of my decision,” he wrote. “On Monday I will sign a contract with Barcelona.”
Barcelona confirmed the deal on its own Twitter account.
“FC Barcelona have reached an agreement with Santos for Neymar,” the club said. “The Brazilian player will join FC Barcelona for the next five seasons.”
The club offered more praise on its website, calling him “one of the most promising footballers on the planet.” Messi was quoted as saying earlier this week that Neymar would be “a wonderful signing” for Barcelona.
Neymar didn’t give any details on the offer he and Santos accepted from Barcelona. He will play his last game with Santos on Sunday in the team’s opener in the Brazilian league.
