Xabi Alonso’s manager Inaki Ibanez has denied any approaches from Juventus to sign Real Madrid’s midfielder next summer. “Xabi hasn’t heard anything from them”, Ibanez told TuttoJuve.com.
Juventus have been reported to have a strong interest in signing Xabi Alonso next season, as his contract with Los Blancos expires in June 2014 and hasn’t signed a renewal yet. However, Spanish papers have claimed negotiations between Alonso and Real have already started. Nevertheless, Los Merengues have already found a replacement for the 32-year-old and have signed young Asier Illarramendi, hoping Alonso can teach him well while he’s still at Madrid.
Ibanez stated the Basque is not considering any offers for the moment. “We haven’t had any contacts with Juve. Xabi is concentrated in his injury recovery, in training and getting back to playing as soon as possible to help Real Madrid reach their objectives this season”, Ibanez said. “It’s not the time to speak about the future. It’s still September and we’ll have plenty of time to make a decision. He’s got a running contract with Real until June 30th 2014 and his priority is his current club”, Ibanez concluded.
Other top European clubs, such as Chelsea, Liverpool, Arsenal and Fiorentina have also shown an interest in signing Alonso. The 32-year-old enjoyed a successful career on Merseyside before his switch to the Santiago Bernabeu. He played an influential role in the Reds’ side under Rafa Benitez as the won the European Cup in dramatic fashion in 2007 – coming from 3-0 down at half time to draw level at 3-3 and then win on penalties.
