Kaka: Leonardo has not asked me to join him at Inter & I want to remain at Real Madrid

Jun 8, 2011 7:40:00 PM

The Brazilian star has reaffirmed his commitment to the Spanish giants, and says that his compatriot in Milan knows he does not want to leave the Copa del Rey winners

Real Madrid playmaker Kaka has dismissed reports linking him with a summer move to Inter and claims their coach, Leonardo, respects his wish to remain at the Santiago Bernabeu.

The 29-year-old’s future at the Spanish giants has been the subject of speculation ever since last summer, when he finished a disappointing debut campaign in the Primera Division, and recent reports claim the playmaker could link up with his friend Leonardo at Inter following an injury-riddled 2010-11 season.

An exchange deal, with Maicon moving in the other direction, has also been mooted and Goal.com has learned that the Italian giants do indeed intend to part company with the Brazilian defender.

However, Goal.com sources have also revealed that the final decision rests with Madrid coach Jose Mourinho, who has a number of attacking personnel at his disposal for the 2011-12 season and looks set to make further changes ahead of the next campaign.

Kaka, though, seems intent on staying in Madrid and rejecting a return to Italy.

“Frankly, my wish is to stay,” the Brazil international said in an interview with Jornal da Tarde. “Before I came to Brazil, Mourinho and the bosses at Madrid told me to spend a quiet holiday ahead of the pre-season. They knew there would be lot of speculation because there have been rumours ever since I arrived [at Madrid]. But I really want to stay and I will stay.”

Kaka starred at AC Milan for six years from 2003 to 2009, winning both Serie A and the Champions League in a successful spell. Interestingly, he was originally signed by the Italian champions on the recommendation of compatriot Leonardo, who is now the coach at city rivals Inter.

However, Kaka says Leonardo has not asked him to join Inter.

“I have a great relationship with Leo, everyone knows that,” the former Sao Paulo forward explained. “When I refused the offer from Manchester City [in January 2009, while still with Milan], he was the first to come to my house to support me and he said that he was happy with my decision.

“He has never sounded me out about playing for Inter because I have never left that door open. Every time we speak I say that I want to triumph at Real Madrid, and he says that is what I should do. Leo knows I don't want to leave.”

Follow Goal.com on . Get the latest football news direct... Check out Goal.com's page; be part of the best football fan community in the world!

Sign up with William Hill for a free bet up to £25
Sign up with bet365 for a free bet up to £200
Sign up to Paddy Power for £250 in free bets
Sign up today with Coral and get a £50 FREE bet - no strings attached!
Sign up today with BetVictor and get a £25 FREE BET!