Alfredo Morelos AND Neymar in transfer tangle as Saudi superstar holds key to landing former Rangers striker

Alfredo Morelos could be set for a return to South America with Santos reportedly interested in the freed Rangers striker - and Neymar’s mega-bucks move to the Saudi Pro League could even help fund the deal.

The Brazilian club are fighting a losing battle in their bid to keep wondered Marcos Leonardo despite rejecting a £15 million bid from Jose Mourinho’s Roma for the 20-year-old. Leonardo refused to play in his side’s clash against Fortaleza as he looks to force a move through to the Serie A side.

And La Gazzetta dello Sport, in reporting on the saga, say that Santos are eyeing Morelos as a potential player to fill the void when the striker leave. The transfer window in Brazil has closed but they can sign free agents, making Morelos a viable option. And in a further twist to the transfer tale they add that Neymar’s imminent £69m move from Paris-Saint Germain to Al-Hilal could provide the cash with Santos, where the Brazilian superstar started his career before moving to Barcelona, due to a solidarity payment of around £3m they are set to receive.

Morelos started his career in his native Colombia and his preference is said to be to remain in Europe - but the Brazilian giants could appeal. His Martin Camagno admitted he could be set for a move to Russia, saying: "I am negotiating with several top clubs from Russia who are interested in signing Alfredo Morelos. There is a very strong championship in Russia, which Alfredo looks at with great admiration."

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