Rio de Janeiro: Brazilian star footballer Robinho is rumored to be returning to Santos FC. The AC Milan star striker is expected to return to Brazil at the end of the Italian Serie A.

The 28-year-old has been in contact with the Santos directory, allegedly requesting to return to his former club. He is recovering from an ankle injury.

With the Serie A ending in June, Robinho looks to fully recover and potentially participate in the 2012 Brazilian Championship alongside Neymar and Paulo Henrique Ganso, Xinhua reports.

Should Robinho return to Santos, it will be his third trip with the club. Previously he played for Santos from 2002 - 2004, helping the team to win two national titles.

He returned in 2010 on loan, guiding the team to win the Brazilian Cup in the same year. (IANS)