You often read reports about the power Lionel Messi has at Barcelona and that when the five-time Ballon d'Or recommends Barcelona sign a player, they listen and try their best to follow through.
Well, it seems as though Neymar also has a similar influence at the Camp Nou going off recent reports.
According to Fox Sports Brasil the Blaugrana are closing in on the signing of Santos star Lucas Lima and he will sign a four-year contract on July 1. He will finish the Brazilian Serie A domestic season with Santos in December before joining up with Barca on a free transfer, if reports are to be believed.
Brazilian journalist Benjamin Back says that the deal is 99.9 per cent done, and that Neymar has played a crucial role in the signing of his former teammate.
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Here's a brilliant compilation Caio Football put together of Lima in action:
Credit: YouTube
Neymar's father is the 26-year old's agent, while he is also said to have dated Neymar's sister in the past. It's noted that Neymar has been pushing for Barcelona to bring Lima to the club.
The former Internacional player plays as a number ten and has represented Brazil on 14 occasions, scoring twice.
Image: PA
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There are however some reports refuting the claims from Fox Sports Brasil, citing Barca's difficult with dealing with Santos when they signed Neymar in 2013.
UPDATE: Further confirmation has arrived from Brazilian outlets that he will sign a pre-contract with Barcelona:
Thoughts on the signing?
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Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
Featured Image Credit: PATopics: Santos, FC Barcelona, Neymar, Brazil
