Premiership - Arsenal are not going to take up the option to turn Julio Baptista's loan deal from Real Madrid into a permanent move, the Brazilian attacking midfielder has said.

"Arsenal have told me they are not able to buy me and so all I can do is return to Real Madrid," Baptista told Marca.

The 25-year-old international moved to London last August in a one-year loan swap, with Arsenal's Jose Antonio Reyes moving in the opposite direction.

The deal included an option for the clubs to buy the respective players at the end of the season but neither man has consistently impressed during the loan period.

"I have enjoyed my season with Arsenal and in England. I adapted well. I didn't play much at first but finished much better. The first year is very difficult," Baptista said.

"The English league is very strong and very competitive with great teams. Manchester United and Chelsea are very strong and it is difficult to compete against their great squads."

In Baptista's absence, Real have come from behind to grab first place in the Primera Liga and with three games left are on course for their first major trophy in four seasons.

"I speak a lot with Robinho and Roberto Carlos and I have wished them all the best for the league. If I am honest I am a little jealous I can't be with them playing for the title," he said.

"I am keen to know what happens in the last three games and hope they go on to win."

Baptista joined Real from Sevilla two years ago in a deal worth around £12 million but failed to make it into coach Fabio Capello's plans when he took over last July.

REUTERS