RIO DE JANEIRO, May 20 (Xinhua) -- Brazil coach Luiz Felipe Scolari has admitted to holding talks with Barcelona about the future of Neymar.

The former Chelsea and Portugal boss revealed Monday he had advised Barcelona president Sandro Rosell to sign the 21-year-old striker this European summer.

"He is an example to follow as a sportsman," Scolari said. "I have spoken to him (Rosell) about how he behaves on the pitch and about his personality and he really is an example to follow.

"Barcelona are clearly leading the race for his signature and he would be a great signing for them. He would be an idol for the fans next season alongside Lionel Messi."

Neymar, currently contracted to Brazilian club Santos until the 2014 World Cup, has also reportedly been sought by Real Madrid, Manchester United, Chelsea and Juventus.