Hughes plays down Robinho transfer talk

Robinho is eager to move on (GETTY IMAGES)

Manchester City manager Mark Hughes is adamant Robinho has a long-term future at Eastlands.

The Brazilian forward, currently sidelined with a stress fracture of the ankle, has been linked with a move to Barcelona.

However, Hughes is intent on hanging on to £32.5m buy from Real Madrid.

Hughes said: "There is always speculation and noise surrounding Robinho. That has been the case since he came to the club.

"He is a great guy. We are not in the process of taking outstanding players out of the team.

"We want to complement the outstanding players at the club. We are looking to build, not dismantle."

Robinho will again be sidelined for the Barclays Premier League match against Wigan on Sunday at the DW Stadium.

But he could make his comeback in the Carling Cup match against Scunthorpe in a fortnight.

Hughes said Robinho is anxious to return and added: "The only frustration he has at the moment is that he is not fit and well.

"I hope that will be resolved in the next week to 10 days, and he will be back on the pitch."