Robinho in line for loan exit from Milan

Former Manchester City attacker Robinho is reportedly close to rejoining Santos on loan from AC Milan.

According to Italian source Leggo, the Brazil international is now surplus to requirements at the San Siro and has been told to find a new club, having been left out of his team’s pre-season tour of the USA.

The report claims he is in line to return to his homeland with Santos on a five-month deal before joining one of his many MLS suitors – possibly Orlando – in the New Year for a cut-price fee.

Earlier this week he admitted his days in Italy could be numbered, telling TuttoSport: “We are still deciding.

“The best situation for me is one that works best for the company that has always treated me well.

“We hope to do the right thing for me and Milan.”

The 30-year-old has 23 months remaining on his contract and is unlikely to command a large transfer fee – in stark contrast to his £30million arrival at City from Real Madrid in 2008.

He lasted 18 months at the Etihad Stadium before a loan spell at Santos was followed by the permanent switch to Milan, who finished last season in eighth position in the Serie A table.