I could imagine playing for Bayern, admits Neymar as he reveals he 'dreams' of Europe

On his way: Neymar at Heathrow on Thursday to catch a flight to Brazil

Manchester City have been dealt a blow in their pursuit of Neymar after he named Bayern Munich as one of his preferred destinations when his Santos career eventually comes to an end.



The Brazilian star is the most sought after young talent in world football, and has long been touted for a move to either Barcelona or City.



He was in London this week, where he underwhelmed as the Selecao were beaten by England, but his future remained the hot topic of debate after the match.



Bayern are one of the most attractive clubs in Europe at the moment, following their announcement that former Barca boss Pep Guardiola will be taking over the reins next season from Jupp Heynckes.



‘Bayern are a big club with extraordinary players,’ Neymar told the German media. ‘Playing for Bayern is something I could imagine doing.

European dream: Neymar says he could imagine playing for Bayern

‘[Bastian] Schweinsteiger is one of the best players I have ever seen. It is the basics that make him strong: his positioning, his passing and his presence on the field.’



The 21-year-old has bucked the trend of recent times, in which South America’s brightest talents flee to Europe at the earliest opportunity, and he insists he wants to stay in his homeland until the World Cup next year.



‘I dreamed to play in Europe since I was a child, but it is important I feel good and adapt with the rest of the team,’ he continued. ‘[The transfer] doesn’t have to be Spain necessarily.’