Santos announced on Tuesday that it has renewed its contract with 33-year-old Brazilian star Neymar. The new contract will be extended by six months on the basis of the original framework until December 30, 2026.

According to ESPN Brazil, Neymar's contract extension includes an option to extend it to the 2026 World Cup. Santos has also promised to pay at least $15 million in return for the sponsorship and investment gains brought about by Neymar's return.

In January this year, Neymar returned to his parent club Santos after terminating his contract with Al-Hilal in advance. In his early career, he helped Santos win the Copa Libertadores, Copa Sudamericana and Copa Brazil, and then moved to Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain and Al-Hilal.

So far, Neymar has made 12 appearances for Santos, scoring 3 goals and providing 3 assists.

After completing the contract extension, Neymar said: "I made the decision and listened to my heart. Santos is not only my team, but also my home, my roots, my history and my life."

"I have grown from a boy to a man here and have felt genuine love. I can be myself here and have real happiness. I want to complete the unfulfilled dreams in my career here, and nothing can stop me."

“I left, I came back, and I stayed. This is where everything started, and it will never end.”

Santos President Marcelo Teixeira said: "Today is a milestone day in the history of Brazilian football and the best gift to Santos fans. Our idol, our child, the prince wearing the No. 10 jersey, will continue to stay here."

"This is a crucial moment in the club's rebuilding process and we need Neymar both on and off the pitch. This declaration of 'I leave, I come back, I stay' is both symbolic and essential for Santos to return to its rightful place."