Moura transfer drives up Neymar price
9 August 2012 05:25
In the wake of Lucas Moura's big-money transfer to Paris Saint-Germain, Santos president Luis Alvaro says prize-asset Neymar is priceless.
The 19-year-old winger ended an off-season of speculation by completing his move to French club PSG for a reported fee of 44 million euros.
With Lucas commanding such a significant price, Santos chief Alvaro has declared the potential value of his side's own superstar, Brazil international Neymar, is considerably more.
"I am adamant in saying that Neymar is priceless," Alvaro told Lance.
"Millions and millions of euro, dollars and reais could not pay for him.
"He is a unique player. (He is) distinguished... (he) is the great idol of Brazilian football, (for whom it is) impossible to negotiate for.
"I also understand that the amount spent for Lucas is deserved. Both are players who represent a new stage of Brazilian football. Along with (Leandro) Damiao, they are impressing the world."
Neymar signed a new contract with Santos in December of last year, including a buy-out fee of 65 million euros.
Such a fee could be by only a handful of clubs, with Alvaro happy to have the forward tied down until 2014.
"I do not regret anything," he said.
"On the contrary, I am even more convinced that the service paid to the history of Santos is priceless.
"We are seeing the affection of the fans, how important it was for the young fans to see Neymar remain at the (Vila) Belmiro. I am privileged to have secured Neymar until 2014, at the end of his contract."
Finally, the president offered his view on the transfer of Lucas to PSG, saying: "Sao Paulo has lost a player who always took great risks against Santos. His trip to Europe is a relief."
