Santos have confirmed they intend to extend the stay of Manchester City midfielder Robinho.
City are likely to cash in on their £32.5million signing from Real Madrid if a suitable offer comes in, but Santos pulled off the unthinkable by signing him on loan on January and have not given up hope of a similar coup.
Santos president Luis Alvaro de Oliveira Ribeiro said: "We have made his stay in Brazil possible in terms of money and there is his desire to stay. We just have to agree with the Arab sheik."
Oliveira argues that Robinho's impressive performances at the World Cup were down to the way Santos helped him regain match fitness and they believe an extended stay will make him even sharper.
"We feel responsible (for his World Cup performance),' said Oliveira. 'Just look how Robinho was five months ago and how he is today. If you think from the standpoint of the investor, the player has gained a lot of value at Santos and can appreciate even more."
