La Liga - Robinho fuels Barca rumours
Tuesday, September 8, 2009 @ 12:15 AM
Manchester City forward Robinho has said he has "always wanted to play for Barcelona", amid speculation the Spanish giants are keen on securing his services.
Reports surfaced at the weekend that the European champions will target the Brazilian ace once the transfer window reopens in the New Year, with Thierry Henry lined up as a deal sweetener.
City made it clear their £32.5m signing was not for sale this summer, but Robinho's comments have cast doubt on his future at Eastlands - and given Barca encouragement in their pursuit of him.
He told Marca: "It is not easy to say no to a club like Barcelona. They are the current champions of Europe, it is a nice city and I like Spain very much.
"I have always wanted to play for a team like Barcelona."
He added: "It is nice for any player to know he is wanted. I am happy that a team like Barcelona have paid attention to me.
"Who would not like to play for a club like Barcelona, alongside Xavi, Iniesta, Messi, Ibrahimovic and all the others?
"I like Barcelona. It is a great club."
City snatched Robinho from under the noses of Premier League rivals Chelsea in a British record transfer fee last year.
Despite moments of magic during his first season in English football, including a hat-trick against Stoke City, the 25-year-old's form was patchy and at times his attitude was called into question.
This season, he is competing with Carlos Tevez, Emmanuel Adebayor, Craig Bellamy and Roque Santa Cruz for a place in Mark Hughes's first XI and has featured in two of City's three Premier League games. He is yet to open his goal account.
Source: Yahoo/Eurosport