PSG close to deal to sign Neymar from Barcelona

The record transfer of Brazil international Neymar from Barcelona to Paris Saint-Germain appeared to be moving closer Monday after a Qatari newspaper reported he was due in Doha for talks with the French's club's Qatari owner.

Al-Watan newspaper reported PSG president Nasser Al-Khelaifi as saying he was optimistic of signing Neymar for the coming season.

"Neymar's deal is going well, I am confident," al-Khelaifi was quoted as saying.

Neymar was expected in Doha in the next few hours for final negotiations and medical check-ups, the newspaper added.

According to Spanish media reports, PSG would have to pay a 222-million-euro (261-million-dollar) release clause to Barcelona, making it the most expensive deal in football history.