Santos have warned Robinho that a move abroad could damage his chances of being picked by Brazil for the 2006 World Cup finals.
The 21-year-old has been linked with a move to Europe and there has been continual speculation that he will join Real Madrid in the summer.
“A transfer to Europe would need adaptation to new customs and food, among other things,” Santos club president Marcelo Teixeira told the club’s official website.
“This would need time. Going abroad could hurt his chances of being picked for the qualifying matches and the World Cup itself.
“He could go the same way as (midfielder) Diego who, after being transferred to Porto, in Portugal, is no longer being picked (by Brazil),” said Teixeira in a reference to Robinho’s former colleague.
“It’s not the intention of this board of directors to sell Robinho to another club,” added Teixeira.
“We’re doing everything we can to keep our top idol at Santos.
“I’d say that…Robinho is one of the best players in the world, alongside Ronaldo and Ronaldinho.”
