Robben Plans Chelsea Stay

Chelsea winger Arjen Robben has responded to reports linking him to Bayern Munich by stating his intention to remain at the club.


The Dutchman’s season has been spoiled by injury, while there are also reports that his relationship with manager Jose Mourinho has been strained.

Rumours on Sunday suggested that Bayern could use the money from selling Owen Hargreaves to Manchester United in a bid to sign Robben.

But Robben told The Sun: "I was very happy with the manager's comments that he values me and it proves I just want to do my best for the team.

"You work your socks off to make a contribution and, when he says good things, it's nice to be here.

"I've always said I wanted to stay, so we will see. I will be here next season, that's for sure.

"I know for myself what I can do, but I need to get into my rhythm.

"I've got a big break now - six-and-a-half weeks off - so I'll come back fresh. I want to show again what I did in my first season.

"It feels magnificent to win the FA Cup. Mourinho gave me a big hug at the end. It feels very good."

New Nani Deal Increases Buy-Out Clause

Manchester United will have to rethink their plan to approach Sporting Lisbon about Nani and Atlético de Madrid have been priced out of the market after the player penned a new contract with the Portuguese club.

Weeks of speculation have surrounded the gifted 20-year-old with both the Red Devils and los Colchoneros said to be monitoring his situation as the end of the season approached.

Sporting have moved quickly to ensure that they do not lose out on their prodigy and have thrashed out a new deal that will see his basic salary and bonuses increase.

More importantly, however, is the fact the player, has seen his buy-out clause rise to €30m.

That figure has ensured that Atlético are no longer in the running and may deter Manchester United into making a concrete approach this summer.

The new deal signed by Nani is a six-year contract that will keep him at the club until 2013, unless one of the continent's most affluent club's matches his buy-out clause.

United were reported to be close to finalising a deal earlier this month for around €25m, but will have to raise their offer to clinch any deal.

Nani has made no secret that he would fancy teaming up again with Cristiano Ronaldo, who also came through the Sporting youth system.

Sir Alex Ferguson is keen to capture the left-winger as he views him as the successor to Ryan Giggs in the Red Devils' side.