Juventus director general Giuseppe Marotta has denied rumours that the Bianconeri are closing in on Paris Saint-Germain forward and Manchester United target Edinson Cavani.
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Tuttosport had suggested recently that the Uruguayan hitman had agreed a deal with the Italian champions and were close to agreeing personal terms.
The Italian press reported that officials from Juve had travelled to Paris to sew up a move for the talented striker with an offer of a €7million annual salary for the forward.
However, according to Sky Italia, via Tutto Mercato Web, Marotta has wholly denied the rumours.
“Cavani is not one of our targets,” he explained. “What I read does not correspond with the reality.”
Such a vehement denial would suggest that Cavani will not be moving to Turin imminently or indeed at any time over the coming months.
However, having reportedly handed in a transfer request at the Parc des Princes [via the Express], it is still anticipated that the forward will leave Paris this summer.
Atletico Madrid have been heavily linked with the forward, with manager Diego Simeone announcing he was following him in March [via ESPN].
“Yes [interest] exists,” said the Atleti coach. “From our end we hope it happens. And for him too.”
Striker Mario Mandzukic has been heavily linked with a move away from the Estadio Vicente Calderon, according to the Metro, and Diego Simeone is believed to have made Cavani his chief summer target.
However, Atleti may well face competition from United.
With Radamel Falcao, and possibly Robin van Persie, set for an Old Trafford departure this summer, according to the Express, United are believed to be on the lookout for a new striker.
The Express also report that Louis van Gaal has a £150 million transfer kitty to spend as the Dutch coach looks to continue his Red Devils rebuilding job, and Cavani has been identified as a potential replacement for the AS Monaco loanee.
Interestingly, Cavani’s father commented on the rumours linking his son to Juve and Man Utd earlier this month – but his words went against those of Marotta above.
“Juventus are a great club, the best in Italy,” explained Luis Cavani [via the Daily Star].
“Have they been in touch? Not now, we wait for the season to finish then we are ready to meet and talk with the leadership of Juventus.
“With Manchester United there has been no contact.”
That was on May 7th though – and much can change in a fortnight in football.