French president welcomes likely Neymar transfer

Posted August 03, 2017 7:00 am

The Associated Press

PARIS (AP) - French President Emmanuel Macron is welcoming the likely arrival of Brazilian soccer star Neymar at Paris-Saint Germain in a record $262 million deal.

Macron met with PSG President Nasser al-Khelaifi on the sidelines of a charity event Thursday, and told him "congratulations, I understand there's been some good news."

Al-Khelaifi responded only with a big smile.

While neither mentioned Neymar's name, it's been all over French media and social networks since the striker announced his departure from Barcelona Wednesday after four trophy-filled seasons.

Neymar is expected in Paris in the coming days.

France's budget minister also has reason to celebrate. Gerald Darmanin said Thursday on France-Inter radio "It's better that this football player pays his taxes in France than elsewhere."

FILE- In this Saturday, May 9, 2015 file photo, FC Barcelona's Neymar celebrates after scoring against Real Sociedad during a Spanish La Liga soccer match at the Camp Nou stadium in Barcelona, Spain. Barcelona said Wednesday, Aug. 2, 2017, Neymar's 222 million euro ($262 million) release clause must be paid in full if the Brazil striker wants to leave. (AP Photo/Manu Fernandez, File) The Associated Press

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