Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho has said that he hopes Brazilian playmaker Kaka stays at the club.

Kaka has been persistently linked with a return to AC Milan this summer, with rumours of a move to boyhood team Sao Paulo also prominent.

Mourinho told the club's official website that he would like to keep Kaka for Madrid's attempt to defend their La Liga title this season.

He said: "Our hope is that he stays. As a coach I would be happy because he is serious, hardworking and contributes to the group.

"In some matches he is a great player, with quality and the ability to help us win. We know him well and have worked together for two years.

"He contributed well last season and I know what he has in his head. We do not need to send messages. The important thing is that he decides on his future that is ideal for himself."

Mourinho spoke about Kaka's future following Madrid's resounding 5-1 win against Los Angeles Galaxy in a friendly on Thursday.