Robson refuses to deny his interest in Rivaldo

By Matthew Jones
June 12 2002

Bobby Robson has refused to deny an interest in Rivaldo, while the Brazilian midfielder has declared his intentions to stay with Barcelona.

Bobby Robson has refused to deny an interest in Rivaldo, while the Brazilian midfielder has declared his intentions to stay with Barcelona.
The United manager is usually quick to deny inaccurate transfer speculation, so his words should be interpreted as an admission that United may be bidding for the Barca star.

"I am interested in the details of the story but I am not prepared to say whether or not a Newcastle delegation has been in touch with the player's representatives," said Robson.

"I would not disclose that kind of information."
Robson then added: "Rivaldo is one of more than 40 players we have been linked with so I suppose there is a 40-1 chance of us signing him."
A Newcastle spokesman added: "We are aware of the Rivaldo link but we are not making any comment yet."

Meanwhile, the 29-year-old Samba star - who has also been linked with Serie A side Lazio - has declared that he fully intends to stay with the Catalan giants.

Rivaldo said: "Not only do I want to stay at Barca, but I also want the club to extend my contract. I'm happy here and so is my family, it's where we feel at home.

"I have no intention of leaving and if these rumours come out then it's Barcelona that should do the explaining."

Meanwhile, Fulham could yet be the English destination of the midfielder once his contract at Barcelona expires next summer.

The Brazilian superstar has told sources in Spain that Cottagers boss Jean Tigana has offered him a chance to prove himself in the Premiership next season.

Rivaldo is valued by Barca at 48 million euros (£30million) but may be sold for a third of that to bring in cash before he is able to walk away free from the Nou Camp on a Bosman deal at the end of next season.

Rivaldo's situation at Barca may have something to do with the return of Louis van Gaal in the Barca hot-seat, with the pair having had a famous public bust-up during the Dutchman's last stint at the Nou Camp.