AC Milan striker Robinho could be set for a sensational move to Arabian Gulf League champions Al Ahli, Sport360 understands.
Reports began to circulate in the Italian media this week that Robinho had been offered a two-year contract by the Red Knights worth €4.5m (Dhs22.1m) a year, with the Brazilian’s agent in Dubai to hold talks with the club over a deal.
When contacted by Sport360, a source close to Al Ahli suggested that talks had been held with Robinho’s representatives and that the former Manchester City and Real Madrid forward could be set for a shock switch to the UAE.
One thing that does appear certain is that Robinho’s time at AC Milan has come to an end.
Milan CEO Adriano Galliani recently revealed that the club had been in talks with Greek side Olympiakos over a deal for Robinho while a club in Brazil were also interested.
Should Robinho complete a move to Al Ahli, it would cause a few selection headaches for manager Cosmin Olaroiu, who has a full foreign quota.
Currently, the Red Knights already boast one too many foreign players, with Brazilian striker and captain Grafite, his compatriot Ciel, Portuguese midfielder Hugo Viana, and new signing Mirel Radoi on the books, although Viana is expected to leave this summer.
The potential arrival of Robinho would mean Olaroiu would be forced to dispatch one of Grafite, Ciel or Radoi – all of whom are proven stars in the Arabian Gulf League.
An argument could be made for Ciel to leave given he and Robinho occupy similar positions as support strikers, while 35-year-old Grafite could make way given his age and the fact he has just one-year remaining on his contract.
