In a surprising turn of events, a Brazilian billionaire—who reportedly never met Neymar—has left his entire fortune, estimated at £846 million, to the football superstar.

According to Brazilian news outlet RIC, the billionaire’s will was formalized at an office in Porto Alegre and authenticated on June 12 in the presence of two witnesses. The document now awaits clearance from Brazilian courts before Neymar can be officially named the heir.

The anonymous businessman is believed to have chosen Neymar as his beneficiary due to the footballer’s reportedly childless and single status. Local media reports suggest the billionaire “identifies with Neymar on a personal level,” particularly admiring the close family bonds Neymar shares with his father, Neymar Sr.—a relationship that reportedly reminded him of his own late father.

Neymar, 33, has yet to comment publicly on the astonishing claim. Should the will be validated, it could still face legal challenges given the size and unusual circumstances of the bequest.

The footballer recently returned to Brazil, rejoining his boyhood club Santos in January after a short, troubled stint with Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal. During the latter half of the 2024-25 season, Neymar scored three goals in 14 appearances. This followed his remarkable first spell at Santos from 2009 to 2013, where he netted 136 goals in 225 games.