Neymar surgery to add muscle

An operation to remove Neymar's tonsils could help the striker add muscle to his wiry frame, according to the doctor responsible for the operation.

Brazil team medic Jose Luis Runco will perform the surgery here Friday before Neymar departs for his new club Barcelona later this month. Runco said Brazil and Barcelona had both agreed the operation was in the best interests of the 21-year-old, who is suffering a chronic throat condition, reports Xinhua.

"If there is a constant infection, it could produce some alterations, including with regards to growth. The operation consists of removing these glands to reduce the risk of further infections. It's a preventative measure to have a better quality of health and to gain more muscle," Runco said Tuesday.

Barcelona have confirmed that Spain left-back Jordi Alba will undergo the same procedure in Spain, also Friday.