Santos president reveals Real close to matching Neymar’s clause

Santos president Luis Alvaro de Oliveira admits that Real Madrid is not far from striking a deal to sign Neymar.

After some media reports suggested that Real Madrid had already reached an agreement to sign the Brazil international, Santos president has moved to deny such claims.

“There is no agreement with Real Madrid,” De Oliveira told Catalan station RAC1.

“We continue with the intention of holding on to Neymar for as long as possible.”

However, the official admits that Real Madrid have come close to matching the player’s release clause.

“Madrid’s figures are close to the clause, but we are not a commercial company. Santos are not interested in money.”

De Oliveira says Santos will not sell Neymar for less than what they believe he is worth.

“We have no interest in selling him for no value. A renewal is possible. He has a contract until 2015, but we are willing to improve the conditions. We will respect the player’s wishes.”