Neymar looks to splash Saudi riches on £7million private island that’s a true paradise

Brazilian football icon Neymar is said to be considering a purchase of a secluded island paradise valued at £6.8million. Despite not stepping onto the field for over a year, the ex-PSG star continues to amass staggering amounts of money due to his lucrative contract with Saudi Pro League team Al Hilal.

Neymar signed with the Saudi club in August 2023 and is rumoured to be pocketing £2.5million per week, equating to an annual salary of £173.8million. However, just five matches into his Saudi journey, Neymar suffered a severe anterior cruciate ligament injury in October last year while representing his country.

Although he has recently returned to training, it’s believed that it will still be some time before he’s back on the pitch.

In the interim, he’s reportedly been keeping himself busy by shopping for a lavish island to while away the hours, as per reports from Brazil. Japao Private Island is the location Neymar is reportedly contemplating.

A luxurious spot that covers approximately 2,500 square meters and is situated near the port city of Angra dos Reis, southwest of Rio de Janeiro, this tropical haven is nestled within a bay home to a total of 365 islands, reports the Mirror.

The breathtaking island comes with its own beach, three luxury properties and a helipad that would allow Neymar and his guests to reach Rio International Airport in just 30 minutes. The island boasts a main villa with Indonesian-style architecture, two suites, a koi fish pond, and three bungalows with sea views, according to its website.

Neymar’s interest in the island was piqued when the current owner, a Canadian magnate, put the entire property up for sale and significantly reduced the price. The property provides specialised service staff and private chefs, accommodating up to 10 people.

At present, the island requires a minimum seven-day reservation. However, if you’re looking to spend a night there, it will set you back a cool £4,000 for just one night.

The island has a history of hosting several famous celebrities including Brazilian model Giovanna Ewbank and Neymar’s ex-partner, Bruna Marquezine. Former players Emerson Sheik, Thiago Maia and Diego Ribas have also tried to purchase it.

Neymar’s taste for luxury is well-known. The 32-year-old already owns a six-bedroom mansion in Mangaratiba’s Portobello tourist complex on Costa Verde. That property also features its own helipad, gym, tennis court, dock, spa, and an underground wine cellar with space for 3,000 bottles. However, Neymar is reportedly testing the waters before making a purchase of the Rio adjacent island.

Reports from Brazil suggest that the footballer and Sheik Muhammad Binghatti, a prominent Dubai property investor, rented the island earlier this month to ‘test’ its luxury, costing them a cool £32,000. Forbes magazine estimates Neymar’s net worth at a staggering £82.7million ($108 million).

With such financial clout, the former Barcelona forward has invested in various properties including three mansions, while his car collection is rumoured to include a Ferrari 458 Italia, a Maserati MC12 and a Porsche Panamera Turbo. However, when it comes to taking the leap and adding this extraordinary piece of land to his portfolio, Neymar’s advisors have neither confirmed nor denied that negotiations are underway for the island.