One of the most senior ranking members of the Barcelona squad let Josep Maria Bartomeu know that signing Neymar was a must if they were to win the Champions League, says Sport.
It was a belief shared by many others in the dressing room who all had their say as negotiations were ongoing with PSG.
Some of the players were even willing to part with their own money to help pay for the costly transfer, such as the desire to bring Neymar 'home'.
The board didn't take that offer under consideration, and some of the squad weren't even aware of it, but it was done to demonstrate how well-liked Neymar is by certain players in the changing room.
It's extremely possible with the €20m Neymar was willing to put in, alongside that of the players, a deal could have been struck with PSG. However, the board only valued a transfer if it made sense on the financial side of things. Some board members called it "absolutely crazy" if they accepted all the demands.
So this gesture from certain squad members was dismissed.
However, not everyone was on board with the Brazilian's return. There's a danger of a rift developing between those on the side of Neymar and those who are firmly behind Griezmann.
Right now, there aren't any issues between the two parties but Lionel Messi, alongside his fellow captains, must ensure this doesn't develop into anything serious. In recent years the changing room has been a welcoming place, helped by a coach who is respected by everyone at the club and no one wants that to change.
jaoabely
173
even icardi was offering his wife for this transfer [Crylaugh][Crylaugh]
baebcksuyz
63
Vicente,please don’t trivialize the matter,Neymar is Barcelona life line as said in the article and he is now bigger than the club and main hope for major trophies,but with a big caution to Barcelona with the way they have glorified him after that spat at the time he was going and court issues we hear,this eagerness for Neymar could be beyond what meets the eye.
ceeaimoprt
56
I believe Neymar supporters are blinded with their support to Neymar with all due respect and do not see the importance of players like Griezman in the offensive animation of FCB. Griezman, is a fast player who can play in all 4 offensive positions, turning heads at any defensive line no matter how big or small club they play against. Neymar is probably the best 11 but griezman will definitely bring Barca a sharper attack. wait and see how he is going to melt down with Messi and Suarez. can't wait for the Valencia game.
Uddy_Hunt
45
That's the funniest football news I have ever heard. Barça is not that desperate to get Moneymer back. They just don't madrid to have him. That's why Barça play with Neymar this whole summer. Barça will play with Neymar again next summer, but they won't buy him again.
raynknight
44
Looks Like BarCa r at the peak of Their Desperation......... MayBe in January we Will have Enough Funds to BrinG the Dribbler Back..... We need u and also miss u