Hughes not giving up on Ronaldinho
Mark Hughes insists Manchester City have not given up on signing Barcelona star Ronaldinho
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Thursday, 03, Jul 2008 10:21
Mark Hughes has insisted Manchester City have not been beaten in their bid to sign Barcelona star Ronaldinho.
The Eastlands outfit confirmed last month they were interested in signing the Brazil forward, but talks appeared to have stalled.
But Hughes, who last night unveiled Brazilian striker Jo as the club's record signing, said the club was being patient over the Ronaldinho deal.
"He is a world star and if these things are going to happen they are likely to take a bit of time and we are patient," the former Blackburn Rovers boss said.
"In the discussions he has had with the club I think he is very positive about the idea of coming here.
"It is a process that is ongoing. It has not slowed in any way shape or form and there is no immediate deadline."
Ronaldinho has been told by new Barcelona Josep Guardiola he is surplus to requirements after a disappointing injury-hit season in La Liga.
Spanish media have previously expressed doubts over the 28-year-old's fitness and commitment, and Hughes acknowledged that Manchester City could be the perfect platform for the World Cup-winner to get his career back on track.
"Perhaps in the last 18 months he has not reached his potential," Hughes continued.
"We are offering him an opportunity that will stimulate him and enable him to get back to the level he was at before.
"I think it could be an interesting idea for him. Maybe what we are doing here would attract him more than going to an established Champions League club.
"The decision will be his, of course, as I am sure he will many offers. Whether he can see our vision remains to be seen."
New Chelsea manager Luiz Felipe Scolari has also been linked with a move for Ronaldinho, but AC Milan appear to have pulled out of the race.