The Times says Kenyon is planning to return to Madrid today in a renewed attempt to sign Robinho after yesterday's shuttle diplomacy failed to secure the Brazil forward. Kenyon held lengthy talks with Ramón Calderon, the Real Madrid president, but the Spanish club would not lower their £32million valuation.

Kenyon will try again, encouraged by the news that Real have told Robinho that he can leave for the right price. Chelsea had a bid of £19.2million rejected last week and are willing to make an increased offer of £27million, but are adamant they will not meet Real's asking price.