Ronaldinho’s deteriorating relationship with Barcelona could see the Brazilian leave the club in the summer, according to the player’s brother and agent Roberto Assis.
The 28-year-old forward’s future at Camp Nou has been the subject of speculation over the course of the season as he has struggled to regain form and fitness.
Milan have been strongly linked with a summer move for Ronaldinho, while Chelsea are also believed to be interested in the former World and European Player of the Year.
The Brazilian’s relations with Barca were further undermined recently when scans revealed he was not carrying a thigh injury, despite the player’s claiming he was unfit.
Assis has revealed that he is considering invoking article 17 of Fifa’s transfer regulations as the exorbitant value of the release clause in his contract would deter many potential suitors
Assis told GloboEsporte.com: “The possibility of Ronaldinho leaving Barcelona is always there.
“We are aware of the release clause, but we also know about the existence of article 17. Anything is possible.
“In football, results determine how things go. Barcelona have not won anything since last season and, as Ronaldinho is the star of the team, he is the one who is given the worst criticism.”
Assis did not rule out the possibility of Ronaldinho moving to fierce rivals Real Madrid, saying: “It has already happened a number of times, even to big names such as Luis Figo.
“However, I don’t like to name specific clubs.”
Assis did confirm that Ronaldinho could stay at the Camp Nou should Barca lift either the Primera Liga or Champions League title come the end of the season.
“The relationship is strained, but imagine if Barca win the Champions League,” he added. “They wouldn’t let him go if he was a champion, would they?
“With their hands on a title, everything would be different.”
