Barmby claims the only difference is that Robinho cost City £32.5million and Geovanni joined Hull for free.
“He’s our Robinho,” he said.
“He’s the bargain of the season and to get a player like him on a free is terrific business.
“Players like Geo don’t usually come on frees, not at his age, and it’s a great pat on the back for the scouting system and a feather in the cap for the manager.
“He’s been fantastic for us and we’re very lucky to have him. It was a great bit of business.”
Hull face Manchester City tomorrow.
“I don’t think Geo has got anything to prove to anyone on Sunday,” he said. “From what I can gather, they enjoyed him at Manchester City.
“We’ve got him now and hopefully he can do the business for us again. Not many people score against Manchester United and he’s done it for three different clubs, including us.
“You need players like him in your side and when it’s a stalemate, Geo pops up like he did in the Arsenal and Tottenham games. Players like that are worth their weight in gold.”
