<
>

Neymar to Barcelona, Real Madrid reports rubbished by PSG's Marquinhos

Paris Saint-Germain defender Marquinhos is the latest figure to have played down speculation that Neymar could return to La Liga with Barcelona or Real Madrid.

Barca vice president Jordi Cardoner and Neymar himself had both dismissed reports of a move back to Spain for the world's most expensive player.

Asked about Mundo Deportivo's recent reports that Neymar wants a Camp Nou return, Cardoner said that it "has not been talked about" -- while the €222 million man has branded the latest speculation over his future "fake news."

"I wish Real Madrid and Barcelona good luck in their attempts to prise Neymar away!" the Brazilian joked after PSG's 5-0 win of Amiens. "Everybody knows how [chairman and CEO] Nasser Al-Khelaifi is with his players and how he likes his most important players.

"I see no reason why Neymar would leave -- he is good here, happy and people can see that when he is on the pitch. Neymar himself has denied all of this via social media. I cannot speak for him, so ask him."

During an interview with Agence France Presse, PSG team coordinator Maxwell also rejected the idea that Neymar is unhappy and stated his belief that second seasons with a new club are always easier than the first.

"I spend time with Neymar, the other players too, and I see a very positive atmosphere in the dressing room," Maxwell said. "He epitomises the team spirit right now -- very happy, playing well and giving everything to keep winning for the club.

"It is normal to be happier this year than last -- it is the same for all new players. You are better adapted during the second season. You know the city, the players, the dressing room and various situations."

View this post on Instagram

🎥: @neymarjr! #lendárioneymarjr #neymar

A post shared by FC Neymar Jr 🇧🇷 (@lendarioneymarjr.11) on

Neymar is expected to be back in action for PSG against Napoli in Champions League Group C on Wednesday, having spent Sunday in Barcelona where he was visiting his son.