Though Barcelona insisted they were not aware of the player's desire to exit the club until fairly late in the transfer window, it has been revealed that Barcelona directors knew the Brazilian's intentions by the end of May.
When reports in Brazil and France first surfaced suggesting Neymar Jr's potential switch to Paris Saint-Germain, Barcelona flatly denied having any knowledge.
The first official statement was made by Jordi Mestre, sporting vice-president at the club. On July 18, Mestre stated the following: 'Neymar will stay 200 per cent'.
Words that gave Barca supporters hope until Neymar eventually did join the Parisian side.
Gerard Pique revealed that Neymar told his then-teammates his intentions at Leo Messi's wedding, on June 30. Barcelona directors maintained that they were still in the dark at this point.
When the transfer market finally closed, Barcelona sporting director Alberto Soler disclosed that he had found out about Neymar's wish to leave the club 'via whatsapp' and on the day his €222m release clause was paid. That happened on August 2.
On Friday, Xavi Campos revealed on 'Catalunya Radio' that the board at Barcelona knew about Neymar's will much before these events took place: on May 25.