Internacional upbeat over Damiao

Internacional upbeat over Damiao

Published Jul. 18, 2013 1:00 a.m. ET

Internacional are confident of keeping Leandro Damiao at the club until after next summer's World Cup.

The Brazil international striker has been the subject of intense speculation over his future for some time with Tottenham reportedly long-time admirers.

But Internacional president Luis Cesar Souto de Moura, who has recently seen his club have a bid for Nilmar rejected, believes Damiao will now be staying put.

"If Al-Rayyan can keep Nilmar, we can keep Leandro Damiao, even if there is a big offer," Moura told Radio Bandeirantes.

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"It's silly to sell Leandro Damiao this year, he has the chance to play the World Cup and improve at a personal and professional level.

"We are confident and we understand that he can wait another year, play the World Cup, increase his value with the national team and then be transferred and have other opportunities."

Damiao, 23, scored six goals for Brazil at the 2012 Olympics in London and has scored a further three goals for the senior side.

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