Neymar's transfer to Barcelona seems imminent. Over the last few weeks, more and more legends, coaches, and players have been claiming that the 21-year old phenom would be headed to the Camp Nou to play alongside Lionel Messi. Brazilian legend Ronaldo is not making any such claims. In fact, he is acting as if it were already a done deal.
During an interview with Tuttosport, the former striker stated that Neymar "has the potential [to become one of the world's best players]. But we have to assess his impact on European football when he arrives at Barcelona."
Ronaldo did concede that Neymar would likely struggle at first but that he would learn to become a top star. "The first year will be difficult for him, but I'm confident that when he adapts he'll be one of the very best," he noted.
Neymar is slated to meet with the club in July after he finishes participating in the Confederations Cup for his national side.
Aside from Ronaldo, a number of other major soccer personalities have made it clear that Blaugrana is intent on signing the rising star. Barcelona representative Andre Cury recently stated that the club wanted Neymar to be a building block for the team's present and future. "Barcelona is extremely interested in Neymar. He's on top of our wish-list. Barcelona does not sign many players, but Neymar is our first choice. We will be ready to pounce whenever he decides to leave," Cury said during a radio interview. "Messi, Xavi and (Andres) Iniesta are all awaiting him with open arms. Neymar coming to Barcelona will put an end to two types of over-dependence: dependence on Neymar at Santos and over-dependence on Messi at Barcelona as we would then have another player at his level."
Neymar's Santos Coach Ramalho also stated a few weeks ago that the move to Barcelona was unstoppable. "I don't know if it´ll be now or later, but I think that Neymar will play for Barcelona," he said. "If he goes abroad it has to be to Barcelona, because they have a similar playing style. If we have to choose a future for Neymar, I think it´s with them."