Neymar: I do want to play abroad

Neymar is one of the most sought-after players in the world after impressing for club and country over the past two years, and has been regularly linked with a move to Europe, amid reported interest from the likes of Chelsea, Real Madrid and Barcelona.

The 20-year-old Brazilian striker currently plays for Santos in his homeland, and despite continued speculation about his future, has made clear his intentions to remain in South America until after the 2014 World Cup, before considering a move abroad.

Manchester United were linked with a surprise deadline day move for Neymar, after Sir Alex Ferguson was rumoured to have lodged a £38million bid to bring him to Old Trafford.

Having been impressed with the youngster's performances at the London Olympics during the summer, the Red Devils boss set about securing his signature.

After seeing Brazil team-mates Lucas Moura and Oscar move to Paris Saint Germain and Chelsea during the previous window, Neymar has reiterated his belief that a move to Europe is too soon for him at the moment, and that he plans to fulfil his contract with Santos, which still has two years to run.

"I do want to play abroad, I never denied that I have that dream," he explained in a recent interview with Globo Esporte. "Oscar's and Lucas Moura's moment [to leave] have come, and sooner or later I'll go too, but it's a bit too early.

"I am under contract with Santos until 2014 and I intend to see it out. So for now I'll watch my friends play on television."