The Barclays Premier League club are long-time admirers of the Brazilian forward and looked to be in pole position to snap him up.
But Spanish giants Real have made their first move in what could be one of the summer's biggest transfer deals.
Rising star: Neymar (centre) in action for Santos against Penarol in the first leg of the Copa Libertadores final
Ribeiro insists no negotiations can take place until after his side's Copa Libertadores final second leg against Penarol on Wednesday night.
'It is not just Madrid; a lot of other clubs in Europe have been calling us,' Ribeiro told a press conference. 'It is no surprise - it would be strange if they didn't want him.
'If they pay the buy-out clause of 45million euros and the player wants to go, there is nothing we could do.'
Wanted man: Neymar has been linked with several of the biggest clubs in Europe
Nevertheless, the Santos chief hopes his side can hang on to the 19-year-old - especially if they win the Copa Libertadores.
'The clubs can talk to Neymar after the Libertadores, but I am sure that if we win the title, the reasons for Neymar to stay will be even stronger,' he said.
'I know mind-blowing offers will arrive, but the player will benefit more if he keeps developing here.'
Hair today, gone tomorrow? Santos' club president insists Neymar won't be sold on the cheap
Success for Santos on Wednesday would ensure a place in the Club World Championship in December, while Ribeiro also revealed ambitious plans for the club's centenary year.
'Next year we celebrate our centenary; we are hopeful of bringing Robinho and Diego back to the club, and of keeping Elano and Ganso, and Neymar could be the biggest star of that movie,' he said.
'Santos will write a page in the history of world football that will change the lives of the footballers involved.'
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Source: Daily Mail
Source: Daily Mail