Have Limerick beaten Man Utd to the signing of Neymar?

AT FIRST glance, League of Ireland side Limerick appear to have pulled off the signing of the century.

Barry Cotter, Limerick FC's 16-year-old forward, bears a 'striking' resemblance to Brazilian ace Neymar. Picture: LimerickFC.ie

But the Blues’ latest recruit isn’t Brazilian superstar Neymar - it’s the Barcelona striker’s doppelganger, 16-year-old Barry Cotter.

Formerly with Ennis Town and Avenue United, the young striker is turning out for Limerick in the Under-17 National League, and told limerickfc.ie that he was settling in well.

He added: “The boys are very welcoming and especially when you need some help you can always ask the manager.

Neymar, seen at a press conference, has not signed for Limerick. Picture: Getty

“The games have gone alright. We could ask for a lot better but we’re hoping to pick it up and it will be picked up. It was a good performance by the boys on Sunday but just a disappointing finish.

“I was delighted to come into the club this season. I’m happy that [manager Dave Dineen] signed me and I’m just hoping for a brighter future. It’s a massive opportunity – I couldn’t ask for anymore at this time.”

Neymar, also a striker, has recently been linked with a move to Manchester United.