Robinho poised for Milan stay - Club reluctant to let Brazil star leave

Robinho: Could now stay at AC Milan after it was revealed the club are unwilling to sell him this summer

Brazilian striker Robinho looks set to stay at AC Milan after it was revealed the Italian club are reluctant to agree a deal with Santos.

The former Manchester City star has been linked with a move away from the San Siro this summer as the Serie A outfit looks to slash its wage bill.

Brazilian side Santos, where Robinho began his career and also enjoyed a loan spell there in 2010, have been heavily linked with a swoop for the forward.

Reports in Italy had suggested that they had sent a couple of high-ranking officials to Milan to try and conclude a deal for the 28-year-old.

A swap deal was also mooted involving 22-year-old goalkeeper Rafael, who recently became a full Brazil international.

Rafael's agent Paulo Affonso revealed that talks with Milan had taken place over a deal for the youngster and that they had included Robinho in those discussions.

However, he also confirmed that those talks had stalled, with the Rossoneri reluctant to let Robinho go.

Available

"We're always available to talk to Milan as they are a big team," Affonso told Globo Esporte.

"The meeting went well, but we couldn't reach a deal involving Robinho, because Milan can't afford to lose him now.

"That's their decision and made the negotiations stall."

Regarding Rafael, Affonso added: "Rafael plays for a big team and favours the top leagues such as Italy, England or Spain.

"I have two offers from second rate markets, but neither Santos nor Rafael are interested in those offers.

"Milan are still interested in Rafael, but he is completely focused on the Olympics and won't say anything before the competition is over."