Cruz wants permanent Betis switch

Manchester City striker Roque Santa Cruz says he would like to remain at Real Betis, after spending last season on loan at the La Liga side.

The Paraguay international joined newly promoted Betis on a temporary deal last year after finding himself behind the likes of Sergio Aguero, Mario Balotelli, Carlos Tevez and Edin Dzeko in the pecking order at City.

With John Guidetti also expected to compete for a place in the City first team next season, Cruz is hoping to extend his stay at Estadio Benito Villamarin.

“I’m fine here and I want to stay and there will be talks, hopefully in the coming weeks, with my agent,” he said.

“It is important to see them (City) face negotiations with a smile on their face. The club has made a major investment in me and is entitled to see something in exchange.

“They do not want to give away players, many players are in a situation like mine.

“But Betis have my word that I will do everything possible to stay, although it depends on City.”

The former Bayern Munich man made 33 appearances in La Liga for Betis last term, netting seven goals as they secured a 13th-place finish after two seasons in the Spanish Segunda Division.