Gabriel Barbosa admits he would love to play alongside Brazil Olympics team-mate Neymar at Barcelona next season
IN DEMAND Gabriel Barbosa has hinted he may move to Barcelona.
The Brazil centre-forward was part of the side which claimed an historic first-ever gold medal at the Rio Olympics after Neymar’s penalty settled the final shoot-out.
And Barbosa — nicknamed Gabigol — admits he would relish playing alongside his Samba team-mate.
Speaking after the match, the Santos striker said: “Up until now, I haven’t really had the time to think about anything because my attention was completely on the Olympics.
“Now I will celebrate with my family, then I will return to Santos and think about what I should do.”
When asked directly whether he would like to play alongside Neymar at Barcelona, Gabigol replied: “He is a great player and playing alongside him would truly be beautiful.”
Related Stories
The 19-year-old has been the subject of bids from Italian duo Juventus and Inter Milan — as well as Premier League champions Leicester.
While Manchester United have also been linked with a move.
Juve’s Gabigol bid was publicly accepted, but the player rejected the switch as he awaited a bid from Barcelona.
Santos’ chief executive also confirmed Inter had launched a bit, and they were waiting on the player to make a decision.
Luis Enrique is actively looking for a centre-forward this summer.
Barca only had three recognised strikers in the squad for the La Liga opener against Real Betis with Neymar on Olympic duty.