Express. Home of the Daily and Sunday Express.
Ronaldo reveals why PSG star Neymar will NOT join Real Madrid this summer
REAL MADRID legend Ronaldo says his former club will not sign Neymar in the summer because Paris Saint-Germain will be reluctant to sell their prized asset.
Neymar appears to ‘punch’ fan following PSG loss
Neymar moved to PSG in a world-record £200million deal from Barcelona in 2016 but has been persistently linked with a return to Spain with Real Madrid.
After a disappointing season, Real are set to overhaul their struggling squad in the summer and manager Zinedine Zidane will be in the market for the world’s best players.
Neymar remains an obvious choice and has previously refused to rule out an exit from the French giants.
However, Brazil legend Ronaldo insists he cannot see him landing at the Bernabeu any time soon.
“I do not know about Neymar,” the former Barcelona and Real Madrid striker said.
“It has been dragging on for many years. There are many rumours, but I do not think there is anything concrete with Real Madrid.
“He is an incredible player that anyone would like to have. But, from what I see, he’s not on the market.”
Despite scoring 14 Ligue 1 goals in 16 games in a season ravaged by injury, Neymar has been criticised by some sections of the PSG support.
Ronaldo, though, leapt to the fence of his fellow countryman and says most of it is unwarranted.
“In football there has always been criticism,” he added.
“I have even been criticised, most unfairly. We cannot do anything about it.
“I see him as a very intelligent kid, an extraordinary talent, and wanting to have continuity again.
“He had two serious injuries that reduced his game time, and that opened the window of controversy to him when not being on the field.
“You have time to do other things and, as young people, life goes on.
“The vast majority of criticism is unfair. I believe in him and I'm sure he will turn his situation around.”