If Carlos Zambrano is to be believed, the Mets may be stuck waiting for Johan Santana to become a free agent in 2008. Despite failing to get an extension from the Cubs, Zambrano insisted yesterday that he wants to remain in Chicago, even though he is determined to test the market after this season. "I want to stay here for a long time," Zambrano said before the game. "I've had six years here. I like it here. I like the city. I like the fans. I like the ballpark." Zambrano hasn't talked about an extension with the Cubs since spring training, when he reportedly turned down a five-year, $80-million offer. The pending sale of the Cubs by the Tribune Co. probably is the reason Zambrano has been left hanging, but it would be in the best interest of the new owner to lock him up soon.