Robinho pleads for Chelsea switch

Robinho has pleaded to be released from his contract with Real Madrid, and Chelsea are expected to improve their offer to £23m. The Brazilian has told Real supremo Ramon Calderon he wants to join the Blues while his agent Wagner Ribiero has been trying to negotiate a move to London. Robinho may even go on strike if he does not get his way - Real are due to take on Valencia this weekend. Chelsea will make an improved offer of £23m for the player, but are prepared to go up to £25m. Real are holding out for £30m. Robinho would earn £5.4m a yearat Stamford Bridge. (Sun: 15/08/08)

transfer talk: bridge business

LAST UPDATED 10:31 AM, AUGUST 15, 2008