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02.03.2009 Football News

Robinho to leave Manchester City in summer

02.03.2009 LISTEN
By BBC


According to a report in British tabloid newspaper The Daily Mail, Robinho could be heading for the exit doors at Manchester City after just one season at the Premier League club.

The Brazilian international sensationally signed for the Citizens on the final day of the 2008 summer transfer window for a club record fee of €42.5 million (£32.5m) from Real Madrid.

The 25-year-old is the Premier League's third top goal-scorer, but City's owners are apparently disappointed at his lack of consistency, especially during away matches, in which he has been almost anonymous at times.

It is also claimed that manager Mark Hughes is concerned that the former Santos star, along with compatriot Elano, is a negative influence on other members of the squad.

It is thought that Manchester City will not transfer list the player, however, they do expect to receive bids at the end of the season and will listen to them.

Chelsea had been linked with making a move for Robinho but, since the departure of Brazilian tactician Luiz Felipe Scolari, it is not known whether the Blues are still interested in the 5ft 8in playmaker.

Meanwhile, City are being linked with Bayern Munich midfielder Franck Ribery, who could join the Eastlands club regardless of Robinho's whereabouts next season.

The 25-year-old's contract at the Allianz Arena runs until 2011 and, with die Roten likely to want to keep their star player, it is thought that the Citizens will have to offer upwards of €22.5m (£20m) for the France international.

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