Robinho is not hiding his desire to play for Barcelona: Santa Cruz

London, Nov 19(ANI): Manchester City striker Roque Santa Cruz has revealed that team-mate Robinho has been completely open about his desire to move to Barcelona.

Though City manager Mark Hughes and CEO Garry Cook have consistently said they will not sanction the sale of Robinho as he is a vital player in the bid to qualify for the Champions League, but rumours has it that the 25-year-old does wish to return to Spain, with a move to the Nou Camp.

"Of course he talks to us about it. And the players are cracking jokes about it in the dressing room," The Daily Express quoted Santa Cruz, as saying. "In the English papers there's a lot of interest in Barca and Robinho is also not hiding his desire to play for them one day. But I guess we'll see," he added.

The 28-year-old further said that Robinho would be a hit alongside Lionel Messi, Thierry Henry, Xavi and Andres Iniesta at the Nou Camp."It wouldn't be difficult. To add a talent like Robinho to the quality of players they have would give a different air to Barca because he has great ability and pleases the crowds. A player that good wouldn't have any problems being part of that side," Santa Cruz said.

City have rubbished talk of a loan move in January while Barca midfielder Yaya Toure's agent has dismissed rumours of an exchange deal involving his player and Robinho. (ANI)