Uruguayan star Sebastian Abreu looks set to stay at Botafogo after the Rio de Janeiro giants categorically dismissed an approach from Palmeiras for the popular forward.
The veteran striker, 35, has become a cult hero with the Brazilians since moving to the club in 2010, and helped the side lift the Campeonato Carioca in the same year. ‘El Loco’ was made an honorary citizen of Rio de Janeiro in a ceremony earlier this year.
Botafogo president Mauricio Assumpcao affirmed that Palmeiras were one of the teams interested in taking Abreu away from the Alvinegro, but added that their enquiries were quickly rebuffed.
“Palmeiras have wanted ‘El Loco’ since last year, but he will not be leaving Botafogo,” the chief emphasised to Futnet.
“He has no interest in leaving. Palmeiras should concentrate on other players.”
Abreu scored 13 times in the last Brasileirao season, helping the Fogao to ninth place.