Hughes still in Ronnie hunt

City chasing Brazilian superstar

By Chris Burton & Francisco Acedo   Last updated: 2nd July 2008

Ronaldinho Barcelona

Ronaldinho: Opportunity to rediscover his form

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Mark Hughes has revealed that Manchester City remain optimistic of luring Ronaldinho to Eastlands.

The City boss insists that there is substance to the rumours linking the Brazilian superstar with a switch to England and has promised to do all he can to make the move possible.

Hughes feels the Blues would provide the ideal platform for the former World Player of the Year to rejuvenate his stagnating career, but concedes that any potential agreement with Barcelona is still some way off.

"It's a process that's ongoing," he said.

"I don't think it's slowed or accelerated. We're still pursuing that possibility.

Positive

"He's a huge world star so these things, if they are going to happen, will take time, but we're still interested.

"I think in the discussions that he's held with the club he's been very positive about coming here.

"He's an outstanding football player and obviously at the moment he's frustrated, but it is for everybody, because everyone wants to see him fulfil his potential.

"I'm sure that he would admit in the last 18 months he hasn't fulfilled his potential but, maybe the situation he finds himself in, we would allow him the opportunity to be the best he could be.

"We would provide the stimulation and enable him to reach the level he was at."

Cost

While it remains to be seen where Ronaldinho ends up next season, Barca's sporting director Txiki Beguiristain has refused to the rule out the possibility of the playmaker remaining in Catalunya.

"Today few clubs are able to pay the price for players like this," he said.

"Also Ronaldinho has a contract with Barcelona, although we have allowed him to negotiate with others regarding his future.

"We have, as yet, not received an offer which is satisfactory.

"If the situation stays the same then he will begin work back at Barca because he has a deal with us."