Santos president Ribeiro has revealed that several European clubs have expressed an interest in Neymar.
Spanish giants not the only side in the hunt for Brazilian starlet
Santos president Ribeiro has revealed that several European clubs have expressed an interest in Neymar.
The Brazilian starlet has been attracting interest for some time and it is expected to be only a matter of time before he secures a big-money move.
Chelsea were believed to be leading the chase at one stage, but have seen Real Madrid edge ahead in the hunt for the 19-year-old's signature over recent weeks.
They are not the only top sides in the picture, though, as Ribeiro claims a number of teams have joined the race.
"It is not just Madrid, a lot of other clubs in Europe have been calling us," he said.
"It is no surprise, it would be strange if they didn't want him.
"If they pay the buy-put clause of €45million (£39.8m) and the player wants to go, there is nothing we could do."
Dizzying offers
Santos are bracing themselves for a sizeable bid, but Ribeiro insists nothing will be discussed until after the second leg of the club's Copa Libertadores final clash with Penarol on Wednesday.
He added: "The clubs can talk to Neymar after the Libertadores, but I am sure that, if we win the title, the reasons for Neymar to stay will be even stronger.
"I know the dizzying offers will arrive, but the player will earn more if he keeps developing here."
Santos hope Neymar will form part of an ambitious future at Vila Belmiro, with Ribeiro revealing that plans are in place to bring a number of former favourites back to the club.
He said: "Next year we celebrate our centenary, we are hopeful of bringing Robinho and Diego back to the club, and of keeping Elano and Ganso, and Neymar could be the biggest star of that movie."
