• Premier League

Luiz hoping Neymar joins Chelsea over Clasico pair

ESPNsoccernet staff
September 6, 2011
Neymar says big club interest is 'good for my self-esteem' © PA Photos
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Santos forward Neymar says Real Madrid and Barcelona are still battling for his signature but insists he has not yet reached any agreement over his future.

There have been reports in Brazil that both Barcelona and Madrid made bids for Neymar before the close of the transfer window and, after his impressive performance for his country as they beat Ghana 1-0 at Craven Cottage in West London on Monday, the player confirmed the interest.

"Real Madrid and Barcelona are interested in me," he said in AS. "The two clubs are battling for me, I can confirm, but I have not reached an agreement with either.

"The interest from the two big clubs in Spain is good for my self-esteem - it's great to know that two clubs like these are interested in me."

Chelsea appear to have cooled their interest in recent months - ESPNsoccernet understands they were unwilling to meet the player's €45 million release clause - but Brazil defender David Luiz still hopes a deal can de done.

"I would definitely like Neymar in my team but it is up to him to decide where he wants to play," he said in the London Evening Standard. "I hope he signs for Chelsea. Neymar's getting to know London and he likes it very much. I love it here, too.

"It's one of the best cities in the world - all I miss is the beach."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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