Brazil's new star Neymar, who has just signed a five-year deal with Barcelona, has also inked an image-rights contract with a group being headed by David Beckham's publicist.
In a statement, Simon Oliveira, managing director of Doyen Global, called Neymar ''a special talent'' with ''incredible charisma and a desire to work hard to maximize his potential.''
Financial terms were not disclosed. Doyen said it had a ''significant agreement'' with Neymar's management company until 2017.
The 21-year-old forward is expected to be hot property at the Confederations Cup, which starts in two weeks, and even hotter at next year's World Cup. He is also marketable with the 2016 Olympics taking place in Rio de Janeiro.
“Our primary focus in the first stage will be on building Neymar’s profile in Asia, where we believe there is real potential for growth,” Oliveira said in a telephone interview from London. “The next few years are pivotal in his career and we are honored to be working alongside him.”
Added Oliveira: “Not only is he a special talent, he has incredible charisma and a desire to work hard to maximize his potential.”
Neither Neymar nor Barcelona released financial details of the transfer, but Brazilian media said the Spanish club will pay about 30 million euros for the youngster. Santos had fielded offers from Barcelona and Real Madrid and said it was up to Neymar to decide where he wanted to play.
Neymar talked about the thrill of playing alongside players like Lionel Messi, but said his short-term focus is the Confederations Cup. The eight-team warm-up for next year's World Cup begins June 15 in the Brazilian capital, Brasilia.
“I’m pleased to work with Doyen,” Neymar said in a statement. “They will add to my team and we look forward to working with them.”
