Inter happy to keep Ronaldo

Martins told the Brazilian media of the Serie A club's intentions, after a meeting with the Neroazzurri club's president Massimo Moratti on Tuesday about a possible loan move back to Brazil.

Martins said: "Inter want Ronaldo to stay until 2006.

"Moratti made it clear that such a transfer never once entered his head. He said he wants Ronaldo and needs him to win the Italian championship."

Speculation about Ronaldo returning home surfaced as he was making appearances from the bench for the Italian club.

The marksman has been gradually regaining his match fitness since recovering from the latest injury he suffered in December but has made Felipe Scolari's last two friendly squads for Brazil, including next week's match in Portugal, and looks to be heading to this summer's World Cup finals with his country.

Martins added: "That's going to end (being on the bench).

"I spoke with (Inter coach Hector) Cuper and he told me that he has nothing against Ronaldo and that he could work him into the lineup in the next few matches."

Palmeiras, Sao Paulo and Flamengo were all linked with a loan move for the injury-riddled star, with Palmeiras boss Sebastiao Lapolla stating that talks with Internazionale have taken place about a loan move but that 'nothing concrete' had been agreed to.