Manchester City winger Robinho has exchanged admiring glances with Barcelona identities as his January move heats up.

Brazil and Barca full back Dani Alves says Robinho would be very welcome and would give the team different options.

And Robinho replied: "Dani is a phenomenon. With Alves I have very good vibes. I am delighted with how well he has done at Barca. He deserves it, he's a great guy and excellent footballer.

"I am still up to date with Spanish football and left many friends in Spain. When I meet with many of them in the Brazil team we talk at length. We are used to exchanging text messages or calling each other."

Alves is not the only one who wins praise. Told he was admired by Guardiola, Robinho responded: "It is an honour that a coach such as him speaks highly of Robinho. I read that he values me. I thank him from the heart."