Exclusive: Portsmouth explored deal for Manchester City icon’s son

Portsmouth have explored the possibility of signing Santos youngster Robinho Jr, although the Championship side are currently not planning to take their interest any further. 

The 18-year-old is the son of former Santos, Real Madrid, Manchester City and AC Milan forward Robinho.

Sport Witness has learned the youngster’s name came up during Portsmouth’s talks with Santos over Gustavo Caballero.

Caballero spent last season on loan at Fratton Park. Portsmouth then held talks over extending his stay or potentially signing him permanently, as we covered at the time.

Those efforts ultimately went nowhere. However, another Santos player entered the conversation along the way.

Portsmouth asked about Robinho Jr

During those talks, Robinho Jr was put on the table and Portsmouth sounded out the possibility of a deal.

Pompey initially indicated they could potentially consider doing something for the Brazilian youngster.

That has not developed into anything more concrete. Our information is that Portsmouth currently have no interest in moving ahead with a deal.

It is an interesting detail given a report from Spain on Thursday. AS say Robinho Jr has received approaches from Spain, Italy and the English Championship. 

They don’t identify the Championship club involved. And whether Portsmouth are the club AS are referring to isn’t clear. What we can say is Pompey have explored the possibility of signing him.

Santos want a sale before the deadline

Make no mistake, he’s nowhere near as good as his dad was. That’s why the Spanish newspaper adds that Santos are preparing for Robinho Jr to leave before the transfer window closes.

Their difficult financial situation is driving that stance. AS say the Brazilian club need sales and are actively looking for an exit for the youngster.

Santos would accept €8m (£6.9m) for 75% of his rights in a permanent transfer. They would demand a little more for a loan containing an obligation to buy.

Genoa have already shown interest from Italy. In Spain, intermediaries have offered Robinho Jr to several clubs. 

That valuation is striking considering the forward has a €60m (£51.8m) release clause in his contract, which runs until June 2027.

Robinho Jr made his senior debut shortly after turning 17. His progress into the first team has since slowed, though. He has made 12 appearances this season, all from the bench. And he has not yet scored the first goal of his senior career.

Santos now appear willing to cash in at a considerably lower figure than the clause they once used to protect him.

Portsmouth have at least looked at the opportunity. For now, though, they appear to have decided against joining the race.