AC Milan forward Robinho will be forced to remain at the Italian club until the summer after talks over a transfer to Brazilian side Santos stalled.
Robinho, 28, recently made it clear he would be seeking a return to his home country in January, but his former club are unwilling to match Milan's hefty valuation.
The ex-Manchester City star will see out the remainder of the Serie A season, although Milan coach Massmiliano Allegri acknowledges that Robinho is likely to seek a transfer in July.
"I am happy that Robinho was in Milan," Allegri said. "He did not train for three weeks, then needs time to regain shape.
"Robinho will stay in Milan until at least July. He has said he plans to return to Brazil."
Santos are hoping Milan will lower the asking price for Robinho in the summer window, although the 28-year-old admitted he would accept a pay cut to play in Brazil.
"There's nothing closed," he told Globo Esporte. "With Santos I would quietly give up a part of salary but with Milan is difficult."
Santos vice-president Odilio Rodrigues also confirmed that the club's fans favour a move for Robinho, who has had two stints with the Campeonato giants.
"Robinho is a great player," Rodrigues told ESPN Brasil. "He is an idol at Santos and the crowd love him. But we have always said that these are difficult negotiations because of the cost of the player.
"We are talking with Milan, but we'll have to wait and see what will happen. The deal is complicated."
