Santa Cruz in talks over permanent Malaga switch

The Paraguay international is in negotiations with the Spanish club over making his loan switch permanent when his contract expires with Manchester City this summer

Manchester City striker Roque Santa Cruz has revealed he is in talks with Malaga over making his loan switch permanent, although Botafogo remain interested in the forward.

The 31-year-old has been on loan with the Andalusians since the start of the season and has scored 10 goals in 40 games in all competitions for Manuel Pellegrini’s men. 

However, financial difficulties at La Rosaleda could prove to be an issue with regards a permanent deal and Santa Cruz has confirmed he is pleased to hear of Botafogo’s interest.

“The interest [from Botafogo] does exist and I’m aware of it, my agents are analysing this possibility that has appeared and there are some talks,” he told Paraguayan outlet Radio La Nueva RGS.

“It’s a very big club; I’m flattered by their interest. It’s always important to be wanted by a club of such size.”

Santa Cruz cost Manchester City £17.5 million when he joined them in the summer of 2009 from Blackburn Rovers, but failed to establish himself after boss Mark Hughes was replaced by Roberto Mancini.

The striker has since enjoyed loan spells back at Ewood Park as well as in Spain with Real Betis and while his future remains uncertain he is confident a return to Manchester is not likely.

“I am also having conversations with Malaga, but I am not going to renew my contract with Manchester City,” he added. “I’ll be a free agent.”

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