Neymar spoke to media at the airport in Barcelona on Sunday as he returned from the holiday break, and both indicated he was aware of interest from Manchester City and was noncomittal about his future at the club.
But, pressed, he was more specific in saying he was not eyeing any move to the Etihad Stadium.
A report in Spanish outlet AS quotes Brazilian star Neymar, in the eyes of many now in ascent to at least challening Cristiano Ronaldo for title of world's second best player, saying "you never know, life is long" when asked if he would rule out leaving Barcelona.
He told reporters “yes, yes” as well, acknowledging Man City’s interest when asked about it.
But, reads the report, he was then asked: “Guardiola has apparently asked for you at City. Would you go with him?” To that, Neymar replied: “No, not that.”
See more: The National's Transfer Talk page
Neymar, turning 24 on February 5, is working on a new contract with Barca, about which he said he was “of course” optimistic. The long-running negotiations have appeared to be hampered by Neymar’s tax situations, which included a probe into his original transfer to Barcelona and accusations of tax evasion back in Brazil.
He had £31.3 million (Dh171.5m) in assets frozen in his native country by a court in September. His father expressed frustration last month that “we have been under attack” since arriving in Spain.
“We will respect Neymar’s contract with Barca but regarding the contract extension, we need a deal that gives us peace of mind for Neymar, my companies and my family,” Neymar Sr was quoted saying by Press Association.
He, like his son on Sunday, did however note “we are not thinking of leaving Spain”.
“But we have a problem,” he added.
Barcelona return to league action on Wednesday against Real Betis. Neymar will be looking to continue perhaps the best form of his club career, which sees him at 14 goals in 13 La Liga matches to top the scorers' table.
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