Gremio's director of football Marcos Chitolina has admitted that his club cannot afford to sign Arsenal defender Andre Santos on a permanent basis.

The 30-year-old returned to his homeland with Gremio in February having struggled to establish himself since his arrival at the Emirates Stadium in August 2011 from Fenerbahce.

However, when his deal comes to an end in July, Chitolina confirmed that his club would not be able to extend it any further.

"We signed Andre Santos for Copa Libertadores and his contract expires in July," he told UOL. "It would be too expensive for Gremio to renew his contract; he is a very expensive player. We thank him for everything he has done, but we will keep Alex Telles and Fabio Aurelio."

Santos has made just 13 starts for the Gunners.