Brazilian Star Robinho Signs For Man City

Top soccer team Manchester City has signed Brazilian forward Robinho in a dramatic late deal, beating Premiership rivals Chelsea, who had also been keen to sign the star player.

The 24-year-old joined City from Real Madrid on a four-year contract for a huge £32.5 million, a record British transfer fee.

The contract was completed just before the 'transfer window' closed at midnight and came just hours after the club agreed to a takeover by the Abu Dhabi United Group.

Robinho, full name Robson de Souza, scored 25 goals in just over 100 games with Real Madrid, and won two La Liga winner's medals.

Robinho had moved to Spain following success with Brazilian club Santos, with whom he signed his first professional contract in 2002, at the age of 18. He made 24 appearances for them in his debut season and scored nine goals, as the club won the 2002 Campeonato Brasileiro.

Robinho had expressed an interest to leave Real Madrid and it had been widely expected that he would sign for Chelsea.

Real Madrid issued a statement explaining the transfer decision which said: "The decision was made after taking into consideration all the human and sporting factors related to the case and while also considering the criteria set forth by the sporting director, coach and secretary general of the club."

Robinho is the fourth Brazilian player to join Manchester City and he will join Elano, Jo and Glauber Berti in the team.

Manchester City manager Mark Hughes told mcfc.co.uk: "I am absolutely delighted to get the opportunity to work with such an incredible talent like Robinho.

"I have said that in order to compete with the best teams in the Premier League we have to be in the market for players of this calibre and Robinho is undoubtedly one of the best players in the world."

Hughes added: "I am really looking forward to introducing him to the rest of the squad and to the City fans at the earliest opportunity. This is a real statement of intent as to the ambitions of Manchester City Football Club."

Ironically, Robinho could make his debut for his new club against the club who had been widely expected to sign him - Manchester City's next game is against Chelsea on September 13.

(KMcA)