Paris Saint-Germain Edinson Cavani has said that he is hopeful that Neymar remains with the club amid the speculation linking him with a return to Barcelona. The Brazilian has not featured for Les Parisiens since returning to pre-season and this has generated doubts whether he will stay at Parc des Princes beyond the summer.

Speaking to Le Parisien, Cavani spoke about the importance of Neymar to the French champions, he told: “I hope that everything that has happened to him will give him the experience to grow as an individual. I think he still has a lot to give PSG, until the last day he is here as a player. He has a lot to give to football as well.”

Meanwhile, the Uruguay international also spoke about the relationship with Kylian Mbappe and said that the team need to find a good connection following the arrival of new recruits this summer, he added: “Playing with great players like him, like Kylian, I really enjoy it. Now it’s time to find the connection between us, to create a good team, a good working atmosphere of work, sacrifice and professionalism.”

Cavani has been regularly linked with a move from the Ligue 1 holders, but that may not happen this summer with the marksman focused on the season ahead with the club. Meanwhile, the French champions have sought to rebuild the midfield with the recruitment of Ander Herrera and Idrissa Gueye and it remains to be seen whether that enhances their performances in Europe.

The Parisian giants have failed to progress beyond the round of 16 stage of the Champions League over the past three seasons and the club’s hierarchy will be hoping for better results regardless of the Neymar situation. Barcelona have been fancied to lodge a mega-money bid for Neymar before the transfer window closes in Spain on September 2.