PSG announces Neymar's arrival in blockbuster transfer

Ligue 1 side Paris Saint-Germain on Thursday announced the signing of Brazilian star Neymar with a five-year deal, tying him with Parc des Princes until June 30, 2022.

PSG was reported to have triggered Neymar's 222 million euros release clause with his former club Barcelona, meaning that he undoubtedly became the most expensive player around the world after overshadowing Paul Pogba's 105 million euros when the latter joined Manchester United one year ago.

"I am extremely happy to join Paris Saint-Germain. Since I arrived in Europe, the club has always been one of the most competitive and most ambitious," said Neymar after signing his contract.

"Paris Saint-Germain's ambition attracted me to the club, along with the passion and the energy this brings. I played four seasons in Europe and I feel ready to take the challenge," he added.

Neymar, 25, has been selected for the Brazilian national team 77 times, scoring 52 goals. He has also achieved 15 titles at club level.

In his four-year stint with Barca, he notched 105 goals in 186 games, winning two La Liga, one UEFA Champions League and three Spanish Cup titles.

According to some reports, Neymar would earn an annual salary of 30 million euros, tripling that he got in Barca.

"Neymar is today one of the very best players in world football. His winning mentality, strength of character and sense of leadership have made him into a great player. He will bring a very positive energy to this club," said Nasser Al-Khelaifi, President of Paris Saint-Germain.

PSG saw his arrival as the club's aims to rise to the top of world football.

"Today, with the arrival of Neymar, I am convinced that we will come closer to realizing our greatest dreams," commented Al-Khelaifi.

Neymar will be unveiled at a press conference on Friday. Although it's not quite sure about his attendance in PSG's new season debut against Amiens on Saturday, he will then be presented to fans before the match at Parc des Princes.

Earlier, the Brazilian star striker Neymar da Silva Santos Jr on Wednesday decided to leave FC Barcelona, the Spanish giant confirmed on Wednesday.

Neymar Jr, along with his father and agent, informed FC Barcelona of his decision in a meeting held at the club's offices.

FC Barcelona "refer to the buy-out clause of his existing contract which as of 1 July totals 222 million euros which will have to be deposited in its entirety."

"Furthermore", the club said, "in reply to the claim for the contract extension bonus, the club has once again made it clear that the amount remains deposited with a notary until the case is resolved."

Neymar remains under contract at FC Barcelona, although the club said he has temporary permission to not take part in training sessions.

Neymar Jr missed training on Wednesday morning and the club said that "before the morning session began, Neymar Jr. informed those present of his wish to leave the club and was therefore given permission to miss training and resolve his future."