Chelsea hopeful of Robinho signing

Updated 13.14 Fri Aug 01 2008

Chelsea chief executive Peter Kenyon admits talks with Real Madrid about Robinho have stalled but remains hopeful of signing the Brazil attacker.

The Blues have been linked with the former Santos star at various points over the summer and Kenyon believes Madrid's eagerness to secure a replacement is the only factor behind the delay.

Kenyon said: "One of the key issues over buying Robinho has always been that Real Madrid are looking for a replacement"

He said: "One of the key issues over buying Robinho has always been that Real Madrid are looking for a replacement.

"It is fair to say that is what has been holding up discussions between the two clubs.

"It has not progressed over the last couple of days but the window is open until the end of August and there's still plenty of time to run."

Kenyon also insisted Didier Drogba, who is currently recovering from a knee injury and has been linked with Madrid, will not be sold and played down talk of a move for Werder Bremen playmaker Diego.

He added: "I think there is absolutely no question that any deal will be done with regard to Didier Drogba.

"Didier is in rehab and will continue to be a Chelsea player - we can squash that one.

"With regard to Diego, I was (as) amazed as everybody else to read it in the newspapers this morning, so again, I think that's just pure speculation."

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