Friday 26 March
Lazio decide on Borriello in Stam deal with AC Milan
Tribal Football
Lazio are believed to have settled on AC Milan
striker Marco Borriello as the player to be included in the deal
for defender Jaap Stam.
The two clubs have agreed a £6.7 million fee for Stam's move to Milan, but Lazio are yet to identify the player they want added to the transfer.
It's understood Borriello has been sounded out about a move to Lazio next season and is keen on the idea, particularly if coach Roberto Mancini can guide the club to Champions League qualification.
AC Milan offering £7M for Lecce pair Chevanton, Ledesma
Tribal Football
AC Milan are interested in adding Cristian Ledesma to a deal for Lecce teammate Javier Chevanton. Lazio are also chasing Argentine Ledesma, but Milan have asked for both the 21 year-old and Uruguayan striker Chevanton in recent days.
Lecce are asking £14 million for the pair, which Milan vice-president Ariedo Braida has baulked at. The Serie A leaders have made a preliminary offer of £7 million.
Ajax's Van der Vaart interested in Serie A
Tribal Football
Ajax midfielder Rafael van der Vaart has
admitted he'd welcome a move to Italy at the end of the season.
The 22 year-old is being considered by Juventus chief Luciano Moggi as a replacement for Pavel Nedved, who could be sold in the summer to Chelsea.
Van der Vaart said yesterday: "If after the European championships my club decides to sell me, then I will accept it. As in the past, I will try to succeed like the champions here before, such as Johan Cruyff and my good friend Andy van der Meyde.
"I will try to build a career at a great foreign club and I'm confident I could be successful in Serie A."
Barcelona ready to make Juventus striker Trezeguet highest paid
Tribal Football
Barcelona have reportedly
tabled their contract offer to Juventus star David Trezeguet.
Spanish press reports suggest a deal worth £2.3 million-a-year has been tabled, which also includes bonuses based on success and appearances.
It is a similar deal to what Ronaldinho is on and will make Trezeguet the highest paid player at the Nou Camp. That is in stark difference to what he is earning at Juve, with the Frenchman's salary still one of the lowest at the club.
Juve's new wage re-structuring has seen Del Piero's contract terms reduced by 15%.
Inter Milan make £2M-a-year offer to Barcelona's Davids
Tribal Football
Inter Milan have tabled a
contract offer to Juventus midfielder Edgar Davids.
The Holland international's priority is to sign with Barcelona, where he is enjoying a fantastic spell on loan.
Inter are offering a three-year contract, worth £2 million-a-season, and are hopeful of bringing Davids back to Italy.
The player's agent, Robert Geerlings, says his client wants a deal worth £3 million-a-season, which is out of Barca's new wage structure.
Ferrara extends Juve stay
Planet Football
Juventus' veteran defender Ciro Ferrara has
penned a one-year extension to his contract with The Bianconeri.
The 37-year-old's contract was due to expire at the end of the
season, but the club are keen to keep the former Napoli ace at the
Stadio Delle Alpi.
"I've already signed the contract which will keep me here until 2005," said Ferrara. "All that is missing is the signature of (director general) Luciano Moggi. I'm happy because this shows that the club still believes in me and my ability," he added. "I can still be of use to this side."
The former Italian international does not expect there to be too many changes at the club in the close-season despite their disappointing campaign this term. "I don't think there will be a revolution in the summer and I believe that boss Marcello Lippi will also remain," added Ferrara.
Ferrara, who has been at Juve since 1994, is set to stay at the club when he does finally retire as he is expected to work as a club official.
Parisi won't believe reports
Planet Football
Alessandro Parisi is refusing to believe
newspaper speculation linking him with a move to Juventus or
Manchester United. The Messina defender would represent something
of a surprise choice for United should the reports ring true, but
he is in fabulous form in Serie B.
Incredibly, he has managed 12 goals this term - an extraordinary amount for a player in his position in Italy - and rumours insist that United posted a representative at the Sicilian derby with Catania to monitor his performance.
Juventus have been alerted to Parisi's displays with general manager Luciano Moggi an admirer of the 27-year-old.
"I don't believe (the reports)," Parisi told Corriere dello Sport. "Parisi at Juve? It's impossible. When I have a contract close to me and they invite me to sign it, my speech could change. But I have the habit of keeping my feet on the ground.
"Today - Messina. Only Messina. Possibly Serie A promotion."
Bayern Munich targets Lucio, Ewerthon and Micoud
Yahoo Sport Italia
After being eliminated from the Champions League by Real, and with Werder Bremen likely to win the German Bundesliga, Bayern Munich has now turned their attention to the future. The strengthening campaign will begin from June, and the players that have attracted Bayern are Bayer Leverkusen's Lucio, Borussia Dortmund's Ewerthon and Bundesliga leaders Werder Bremen's Johann Micoud.
Brazilian central defender Lucio is being followed by Juventus and Chelsea, ex-Parma playmaker Johann Micoud is currently leading Werder Breman to the Bundesliga title, and Brazilian attacker Henrique de Souza Ewerthon has already scored 10 goals for Borussia Dortmund.
Thursday 25 March
Del Piero almost ready
Alessandro Del Piero
is set to return to the Juventus first team for the April 10 game
against Lazio.
The Italian star has been out of action since March 9 with a calf strain but he's reacting well to treatment. The Azzurri international underwent further tests today and medics are confident he will be back in the next 15 days.
The Bianconeri hope that he will be available for the Lazio clash. If he doesn't make that game then he will definitely be available for the April 18 tie at Parma.
Juventus pressure Atletico Madrid over Torres
Tribal Football
Crisis hit Juventus have made Atletico Madrid whiz-kid Fernando Torres a priority target for the summer market.
Rocked by how their campaign has collapsed in recent weeks, Juve sports chief Luciano Moggi wants to soothe supporter fears by landing Atletico's teenage ace. Knowing that Manchester United have already had a £24 million offer rejected, Moggi is keen to heap more pressure on Atletico by making a bid of his own.
Gazzetta dello Sport says the Juve board has told Moggi he can use the cash raised from David Trezeguet's proposed sale to Barcelona to fund a mega bid for Torres - who is regarded as a hotter prospect in Spain than Arsenal's Jose Reyes.
Torres says he'll go if it helps
Planet Football
Juventus are the latest club being linked with
Atletico Madrid star Fernando Torres.
Atletico revealed last week to skysports.com that they have no intention of selling their much sought after star, after Premiership champions Manchester United were linked with the Spain international, as well as European kings Milan.
The 19-year-old is the club's prized-asset but with their precarious financial situation in mind, he has sparked fresh rumours by revealing he would be ready to move to help Atletico out.
"If it would help out the club, I'll leave," said the hit-man. "If it helped out the club financially then I will swap jerseys." However, a self-confessed Atletico fan, Torres said he would not leave to join another Spanish club and voiced his preference for a move to Serie A.
"But I will not leave for a Spanish club," he added. "I would never face the team that I was born in while in the same league. I would be better off going to Italy to Milan or Juventus. They are ambitious and well organised clubs.
"But they will have to talk to Atletico because I won't do anything behind their back. Anyway, I'd like to spend my whole career in the red and white jersey."
Gilardino reaches target
Planet Football
Parma striker Alberto Gilardino admits he has achieved his personal aim this season of netting ten goals.
Gilardino is one of the newest talents in Italian football and his rise has alerted a host of Serie A's top clubs who will want to take advantage of Parma's precarious financial situation, with Milan, Juventus and Internazionale all taking an interest.
"This season, my dream was to reach ten goals and it is a dream come true to think I have done it already," said the young forward on the club's website. "Obviously I'm really happy and there are still eight matches to go so my number could still improve."
Despite Parma's worrying financial plight, Gilardino paid thanks to coach Cesare Prandelli for putting faith in him after the sale of Brazilian striker Adriano to Inter.
"I'm happy because thanks to my coach and my team-mates I can perform. I am young and still have a lot to learn but hopefully this season will represent things to come in my career," he added.
Fiorentina a chance for Parma starlet Gilardino
Tribal Football
The agent of Parma attacking midfielder Alberto Gilardino hasn't ruled out a future move to an ambitious Serie B club for the player. Giuseppe Bonetto told Calciomercato.com, "He is very happy at Parma, though things can change because of the club's financial situation.
"The usual suspects are interested, Juventus, AC Milan and Inter. But he would also be interested in joining a strong Serie B club like a Fiorentina or Palermo if they were to gain promotion."
Juve on the defensive
A variety of players are today being linked with a summer move to Juventus as they look to strengthen their defence. The Bianconeri rearguard has been heavily criticised this term and some big changes are expected.
One possible arrival is that of Ajax full-back Hatem Trabelsi. "I've always dreamed of playing in Italy," the Tunisian told Tuttosport on Wednesday. Juve are the Real Madrid of Italy. I'm now 27 and I feel ready for Serie A. If Juve called then I couldn't turn them down."
The right-back, who is set to quit the Dutch outfit at the end of this campaign, is also a target for Milan, Chelsea and Arsenal.
Another player that is keen on a move to Turin is Alessandro Parisi. The left-back is currently excelling in Serie B with Messina. "I know that they are looking at me very closely," said the 26-year-old. "It would be a dream for me but in order to make it happen then I must keep doing well here."
Bayer Leverkusen ace Lucio has been heavily linked with Juve but reports yesterday suggested that Bayern Munich were also interested. "There has been much speculation regarding Lucio," said a Bayer spokesman. "The truth is that we are not in negotiations with Bayern."
Meanwhile, reports in South America suggest that the Old Lady are keen on promising youngster Gonzalo Rodriguez. The San Lorenzo player, who is only 20, is rated as a future star of the Argentine national team.
Ajax fullback Trabelsi: I dream of Juventus
Tribal Football
Ajax fullback Hatem Trabelsi has issued a 'come and get me' plea to Juventus. The Tunisia international is fielding enquiries from several European powerhouses about next season, including Arsenal and Chelsea.
But he told Tuttosport yesterday, "I have always dreamed of playing for Juventus. They are the Real Madrid of Italy and at 27 I feel I am ready to play Serie A football. If Juve came knocking, I could not say no."
Trabelsi is off contract in June, but his case could be taken to the High Court if Ajax choose to invoke a two-year option that is written into the Tunisian's deal.
Juventus keep tabs on Messina winger
Tribal Football
Juventus sports director Luciano Moggi has approached little Messina about left-winger Alessandro Parisi. The 26 year-old has scored 12 goals this season from midfield and has been the subject of glowing reports from Juve's scouting team.
Sources close to Messina say Moggi has already asked their board about taking the player at the end of the season to Turin.
Juventus reps in Argentina for Rodriguez talks
Tribal Football
Juventus chief Luciano Moggi is sending representatives to Argentina tomorrow for talks with San Lorenzo over fullback Gonzalo Rodriguez. The Argentina U21 international almost joined Juve in January and Moggi wants to tie up a deal before the opening of the winter transfer market.
Rodriguez can play at right-back and centre-half and is seen by Moggi as a solution to the club's ageing defensive options.
Moggi comments on player tax
Yahoo! Sport Italia
Juventus is not enthusiastic about the proposal of a "player tax" when the salary cap is exceeded. "The clubs themselves are the ones that must consider the salary cap and manage themselves accordingly." commented Luciano Moggi to the proposal to limit a club's expenses to 60% of its income received.
Juventus is one of the first clubs to begin reducing player wages when negotiating contracts. Del Piero's contract had a cut of 15% when it was extended until 2008.
Bonera or Ferrari for Juventus defence
Yahoo! Sport Italia
Juventus is forced to sell some of its valuable assets in order to balance the club's finances. Trezeguet, Nedved and Thuram seem to be on the departure list, but the bianconeri are ready to open a new cycle with the acquisition of young talents that go to mainly reinforce the unit that in this season has mainly suffered: the defense.
Either Daniel Bonera or Matteo Ferrari will arrive from Parma, with the former being more probable as he can cover more roles at the back. Other players to appeal to Juve include Ajax's Hatem Trabelsi, considered the "Cafu" of Africa, and Monaco's central defender Sébastien Squillaci. However whether Juve makes a move for Squillaci depends on whether Didier Deschamps will be managing the club.
Manuele Blasi is a confirmed return from his loan at Parma. Parma's Italy Under-21 striker Alberto Gilardino and Roma's Argentine defender Walter Samuel are also linked, but moves for both will depend on how badly their clubs need the funds. Real Madrid are also interested in Samuel, and are looking to take advantage of the Rome club's financial difficulties.
Trezeguet rumors
Yahoo! Sport Italia
Spanish paper Sport Mundo has confirmed the transfer of David Trezeguet from Juventus to Barcelona. The French striker will earn €3.5 million per season. The contract would have a fixed component and an incentive-based variable component.
Agent: Chelsea favourites for AS Roma skipper Totti
Tribal Football
The agent of AS Roma star Francesco Totti says the Italian international would only leave for three clubs.
"With regard to the talk from England and on Chelsea, I have not spoken with anybody," insisted Vincenzo Morabito. The difficult economic situation of Roma and the recent declarations of Totti has fed these rumours."
But he added, "If he was to go onto the market, only three clubs would be considered. The clubs are Chelsea, Inter and Real Madrid. Chelsea are favorites from the economic point of view, Inter and Real are the more valid teams from the sport point of view. But it is too soon to speak of this."
Chelsea to pounce for PSG fullback Heinze
Tribal Football
Chelsea are ready to pounce as Gabriel Heinze prepares to leave Paris Saint Germain at the end of the season. PSG are already sending out feelers to find a replacement for the Argentina international, who confirmed contact with Chelsea officials in January. Heinze has also been linked with Barcelona, but is believed to have his heart set on moving to the Premiership next season.
Bolton boss talked terms with Kapo
Tribal Football
Bolton Wanderers boss Sam Allardyce has had a face-to-face meeting with Auxerre attacking midfielder Olivier Kapo. The Independent says Allardyce has met the French international attacker and hopes to sign him in the summer when he becomes a free agent. Allardyce admitted Bolton will have to watch developments as Kapo compares their offer with others. He admitted: "I think we may be out of that race at the moment.
Wednesday 24 March
Maresca wants Turin future
Enzo Maresca has responded to rumours linking him with a transfer by insisting he wants to stay at Juventus for life. Speculation has suggested that the player could be used as bait in the summer market but Maresca is focused on remaining in Turin.
"I would stay here for the rest of my career if it was up to me," said the talented midfielder. "Obviously it is up to the club to decide. This season I started on the bench but gradually played more and more. I hope to have even more space in the future.
"It is just important for me that the club believes in me. I have a contract until 2005 and we are discussing an extension. I believe in the club's future plans."
Maresca has had a positive campaign until he became just one of a number of players to get injured. "We've been unlucky that we had so many injuries at such a crucial part of the season," said Maresca when he was asked about Juve's problems this term.
"Even sides like Roma would struggle if players like Totti, Emerson and Samuel were all unavailable at the same time. But we just need to concentrate on finishing this season in second place and hope to overturn our 2-0 first leg loss in the Coppa Italia Final against Lazio."
The former West Brom and Piacenza player was also asked to comment on rumours that he may be called into the Italy squad. "I've heard certain voices and I obviously hope that they come true," he added. "Playing for the Azzurri is an objective of mine."
Maresca, a former Under-21 international, could be included for the first time in the Portugal friendly next week.
Juve search for new Trez
Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Alberto Gilardino are likely to be targeted by Juventus if David Trezeguet is sold. Rumours persist that the Frenchman will join Barcelona and he will evidently need to be replaced.
It is believed that Juve have already agreed to sell Trezeguet to the Spaniards at the end of this season for £20m. That money will be invested on a younger and cheaper striker, with Ibrahimovic and Gilardino heavily linked with the side in the past.
The Swedish international is keen to leave Ajax for a bigger club and a summer switch may occur. He's valued at around £8m.
Gilardino though is also highly thought of in Turin after his exploits at Parma so far this season. The Under-21 ace has really impressed, especially as he has adequately replaced Adriano at the Stadio Tardini.
Meanwhile, whispers in Turin insist that Marco Di Vaio is on the verge of signing a contract extension. The striker, mainly used as a substitute for Trezeguet and Alex Del Piero this term, will put pen to paper on an agreement that will keep him with the club until 2009.
Juve face Lucio battle
Bayern Munich have joined Juventus in the chase for Bayer Leverkusen central defender Lucio. The Brazilian international is expected to quit his club this summer, despite having a contract until 2007, and Bayern are keen on his signature.
The German giants have had another disappointing season and they are looking to strengthen a suspect defence. However, Juventus have also been linked with the stopper after their problems at the back this term.
Lucio was first associated with the Turin club last summer after he turned down a £10m move to Roma. It was thought that the Delle Alpi side had gained an option on the World Cup winner but it is unclear at this stage whether they are still interested.
Reports suggest that clubs such as Real Madrid and Chelsea are also in the race to sign the South American.
Meanwhile, Juve are again being linked with a summer swoop for Ternana ace Luis Jimenez. The 19-year-old could be signed and then immediately offered to Lazio in a bid to snatch Stefano Fiore from the capital club. The Italian international is a top target for the Bianconeri, especially as he has scored five goals past them in his last four games.
Bayer deny Bayern talks
Planet Football
Bayer Leverkusen have denied reports in the German press that Bayern Munich have already started negotiations with the club about the transfer of Lucio.
Bayern Munich look set to wield the axe in the summer in what could end a trophy-less season and, according to German football magazine Kicker, the Brazilian World Cup winner is high on the list of coach Ottmar Hitzfeld.
Chelsea, Real Madrid and Juventus are also monitoring the gifted stopper's situation but Leverkusen officials have made early moves to distance the Bavarians from their star. "There is always speculation surrounding Lucio, but there's no contact between us and Bayern at the moment," stressed general manager Reiner Calmund.
The defender is expected to leave the BayArena in the summer despite being contracted until 2007.
Man Utd, Chelsea invited to bid for Dortmund stars
Tribal Football
Borussia Dortmund chairman Gerd Niebaum has admitted he is touting the club's big-name players to Premiership clubs. Chelsea are in advanced talks with Tomas Rosicky, while Jan Koller and Manchester Unietd target Christophe Metzelder are also being linked with England.
"The transfer markets in Germany and in the South European countries of Spain and Italy are very weak at the moment, but the English Premier League, on the other hand, isn't," explained Niebaum. "There are still clubs there who are looking to expand and want to sign new players."
Man Utd alerted as Tevez ready for Boca move
Tribal Football
Long-time Manchester United target Carlos Tevez has announced he is ready to quit Boca Juniors this year. The Argentine whiz-kid is being followed closely by United boss Sir Alex Ferguson, who made enquiries after the youngster last month.
"I don't think like I did before, said Tevez. "If in June I receive a good offer for me and the club I will surely leave." Boca are expecting to field a major auction for the striker, who has been described as the 'new Maradona' in Buones Aries.
Tuesday 23 March
Juventus linked with Kapo, Mexes and Trabelsi
Yahoo! Sport Italia
Juventus are preparing to offload Thuram and Trezeguet to fund their transfer for other French players. Juve are supposedly still in negotiation with Auxerre striker Olivier Kapo despite the player saying otherwise, and the deal could be close to completion. Kapo's team mate Philippe Mexes is also linked with a summer transfer.
Rumors linking Didier Deschamps with a return to Turin as manager continue. The former Juve midfielder prefers a central defensive pairing of Mexes and Monaco star Sebastien Squillaci. Negotiations are also underway with Ajax's Tunisian fullback Hatem Trabelsi. Juve hope to conclude the deal before Trabelsi's long-time admirers Milan can make a move.
Juventus to add Maresca to Jankulovski deal
Yahoo! Sport Italia
Juventus transfer guru Luciano Moggi is considering adding Enzo Maresca to the Jankulovski deal with Udinese. Currently Juve are offering £5.5m cash, plus 50 per cent of Under-21 internationals Giuseppe Sculli and Andrea Gasbarroni.
Agent: Davids prefers Barcelona over AC Milan
Tribal Football
The agent of Barcelona midfielder Edgar Davids has confirmed he knows of the interest of AC Milan. Richard Geerlings told Calciomercato.com yesterday: "I know of the interest of Milan for Davids, they were interested in the player weeks ago.
"Milan was in contact with me from that period. Davids, however, is very content with Barcelona, the priority is for Barcelona, since they also have an option for the player for next year. In May we will make a decision."
Man Utd turns to Rothen after missing PSV starlet
Tribal Football
Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is eyeing
AS Monaco winger Jerome Rothen.
Ferguson is turning to Rothen after losing out on PSV Eindhoven starlet Arjen Robben to Chelsea last month.
Rothen is also a major target for Juventus and is regarded as one of France's best young talents.
Cash-strapped Monaco are believed to be looking for around £15 million for the youngster
Inter close in on Cambiasso
Inter are close to agreeing terms with Real Madrid's Esteban Matias Cambiasso, according to the latest reports. Stories in the media allege that the midfielder will hold talks with the Nerazzurri in April to finalise a deal.
The Argentine will leave the Spanish capital in the summer on a free transfer after he wasn't offered a new contract. Cambiasso has caught the attention of a number of clubs, including the London pair of Chelsea and Arsenal. But it is expected that he will be playing at the San Siro next season with a four-year deal in the pipeline.
Trap watching young duo
Parma striker Alberto Gilardino
and Stefano Mauri of Brescia have caught the eye of Italy boss
Giovanni Trapattoni. The tactician revealed last week that he could
still experiment ahead of Euro 2004 and the two youngsters may get
a call up for the Portugal friendly next week.
"I've looked at what has been happening on the pitch over the last few months," said the veteran Coach. "I have to say there are a few players who we are following with great interest and who could have a future in the national team.
"Gilardino is doing great at Parma and there are also youngsters who could prove extremely useful, like Stefano Mauri of Brescia."
Gilardino has had a wonderful campaign, which has seen him linked with a summer move to one of the big Italian clubs. However, he is unlikely to win a place at the European Championships given the fact that he will feature for the U-21s at their Euro Finals this summer.
Meanwhile, Mauri is making a name for himself after his fine performances for the Lombard club. The 23-year-old was signed in the summer at the request of new boss Gianni De Biasi. Both were at Modena last term.
Wenger slams Serie A
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger rates the Premiership as better than Serie A. "For me, England is a paradise for football players and a love for the game here which cannot be matched anywhere else," said the Frenchman.
"When you watch Juventus play La Coruna in a Champions' League game, there are only 22,000 people in the stadium with over 50,000 empty seats. When do you ever see that in England?"
Monday 22 March
Juve to use Jimenez as Fiore bait
Yahoo! Sport Italia
Rumors indicate Moggi intends to obtain Jimenez from Ternana, and send him on loan to Lazio in exchange for the services of Stefano Fiore. However, promotion-chasing Ternana are insistent that if they get promoted to Serie A they will not sell Jimenez. Jimenez is also wanted by Manchester United.
Barcelona confirm Trezeguet negotiations
Yahoo! Sport Italia
Barcelona vice-president Ferran Soriano have confirmed negotiations with Juventus over Trezeguet. Spanish press reports claim the Catalan club have agreed on a price with Moggi for Trezeguet, and will pay €27 million (£18m) to Juventus in order to add the French striker to Rijkaard's squad. Moggi had wanted €30 million while Barcelona were offering €25 million.
Barcelona's President Joan Laporta also intends to take advantage of the good relationship between Turin and Barcelona, which began with the Edgar Davids deal, to further reduce the price on the player. Helping his cause is the recent announcement by Trezeguet's father expressing frustration over their contract negotiations with Juventus.
Juve capture Jankulovski
Juventus have already begun their revolution with the probable arrival of Udinese and Czech Republic star Marek Jankulovski. The 26-year-old midfielder has long been a target for the Bianconeri, although they faced stiff competition from Inter and Lazio.
According to the latest reports a basic agreement has been thrashed out between director generals Luciano Moggi and Pierpaolo Marino. Udinese would receive £5.5m cash, plus 50 per cent of Under-21 internationals Giuseppe Sculli and Andrea Gasbarroni. Hitman Sculli is currently on loan with Chievo, while winger Gasbarroni is starring for Serie B leaders Palermo.
Jankulovski is set to hit the headlines with the Czech Republic at Euro 2004 and has already become a set-piece specialist in the Italian Championship.
Bakke agent silent on rumour
Eirik Bakke's agent Jim Solbakken refused to be drawn into conversation when asked if Italian giants Juventus were interested in the Norwegian international.
Reports in England speculated the Stadio Delle Alpi side were keen on landing the former Sogndal ace, however Solbakken neither strengthened nor played down the story.
"No comment," stated the agent to TV2 Nettavisen when confronted about whether Bakke could be set for a Serie A move.
Bakke's season has been hit by injury after he missed virtually the entire first half with a knee injury, while a thigh strain is currently keeping him on the sidelines.
The 26-year-old has been receiving treatment on the knock that has kept him out since Leeds' home clash against Liverpool, however he could return against Manchester City on Monday.
Buffon: Juve Needs Only A Couple Of Changes
Soccerage
Gigi Buffon talked to the press on Sunday after the draw with Udinese about the situation that Juventus is going through.
"Today we were all a bit tired because we have been playing a lot of games lately and there are so many injured players that there aren't any substitutes," he said. "Obviously if you ask me what we need the most now I would say new players but that's because we have been unlucky so far".
"I don't think that this team has to start from scratch," he added. "We only need a couple of changes and next year we will be fighting for the league again".
Sunday 21 March
Udinese 0 Juventus 0
Juve's crisis continues with a disappointing goalless draw at Udinese's Stadio Friuli and some controversial refereeing.
Juventus have lost their last three games in all competitions and are in desperate need of a victory. David Trezeguet and Enzo Maresca return after several weeks out with a shoulder and back injury respectively, while Antonio Conte is suspended.
Udinese have a very poor record against the Bianconeri in this Stadium and their overall home form this season has been disappointing. Luciano Spalletti had lost all eight of his previous encounters with Juventus and finally broke that taboo.
Nonetheless, the Friuli outfit had the first scoring opportunity after four minutes when Gianluigi Buffon was at full stretch to fingertip Marek Jankulovski's angled drive round the upright.
Juve fought back and on 15 minutes Morgan De Sanctis rushed off his line to block Enzo Maresca's finish at the near post following good build-up play from Pavel Nedved. Soon after Maresca had another good chance, his volley deflected over the bar by some brave defending, while Nedved's free header was off target.
Marcello Lippi's men began to dominate as the first half wore on and Maresca's brilliant solo effort skimmed the crossbar.
There was a great deal of controversy just before the break when Ciro Ferrara clattered into Martin Jorgensen as he prepared to head the ball in a dangerous position. Udinese had penalty appeals rejected as the referee waved play on.
Maresca and Nedved continued to get themselves into good positions, but their finishing left something to be desired.
Lippi made a change in the second half, introducing Igor Tudor in place of Nicola Legrottaglie as the ex-Chievo player is suffering from a muscular problem.
Udinese had a good scoring opportunity early on when David Pizarro's delightful chipped pass found an alert Buffon before Giampiero Pinzi could pounce.
The Friuli side had the best chance of the whole game on 54 minutes when a corner kick was pushed towards the goal by Felipe's knee and brought a stunning reaction save out of Buffon.
On the resulting corner it came out to Jankulovski and his fierce deflected drive slammed the woodwork to Buffon's right.
Maresca was among Juve's most lively players, but is still not 100 per cent fit and made way for another long-term injury Alessandro Birindelli.
Alessio Tacchinardi had an excellent attempt from long range that was beaten away with some difficulty by De Sanctis, but Trezeguet was offside as he prepared to go for the loose ball.
Udinese needed more firepower and threw on top scorer Dino Fava for the ineffective Lucas Castroman. Giampiero Pinzi was forced off with a split lip following an accidental collision with Birindelli.
There was more bad news for the home side in the closing stages, as Iaquinta pulled up with a muscular problem, while Marco Di Vaio replaced a very disappointing Nedved.
Juventus nearly gave away a disastrous counter-attack in the final minute when Gianluca Pessotto dived in for a crucial tackle on Fava in the box, but the defender escaped without even a booking for what can only be described as a rugby tackle on Jorgensen in the early stages of that move.
It was the latest in several controversial decisions by Tiziano Pieri and controversy will no doubt follow this match.
Lippi content with Friuli point
Marcello Lippi claims he is happy just to end a run of three consecutive defeats, but Udinese were furious with the referee.
"In the last few games with these same players," explained the Juventus boss, "we always played a good first half and that was the case again today. Unfortunately, we were unable to make the most of our scoring opportunities and could even have lost it at the end."
The 0-0 draw at the Stadio Friuli means that whatever the result of the Rome derby, Juventus will remain in third place. "I must nonetheless compliment my players for their psychological reaction to the last few results in the Champions' League, Serie A and Coppa Italia."
Their only real objective now is that second place that ensures automatic entry into next year's European Cup. "All we can do," concluded Lippi, "is start again with the same spirit seen today and try to get that runner-up spot and perhaps overturn our 2-0 Coppa Italia first leg defeat."
It was a controversial match, as referee Tiziano Pieri came under fire from the home fans for some curious decisions.
"I am not remotely happy with this result," slammed Luciano Spalletti. "We did everything possible in order to win this match and if there was someone here that feels hard done by it is Udinese."
Pizarro demands Juve move
David Pizarro has finally come out into the open and confirmed he wants to join Juventus next season.
"I owe a great deal to Udinese," said the 24-year-old, "as they allowed me to mature as a professional. But I think this is the time for me to test myself at the top level and Juventus would be fantastic."
The Chilean midfielder has been heavily linked with Lazio and Inter over the last year, but now insists his destination will be Turin.
"I know of Juve's interest in me," he continued, "and Udinese owner Pozzo knows how I feel about this. I hope he listens to my wishes."
Pizarro's rapport with the Friuli side has been particularly tense over the last few months when he refused to sign a new contract. The player was frozen out of the squad for a month and allowed back in after he put pen to paper on an extended deal, but has not given up on his dream of a big club in the 2004-05 campaign.
Jankulovski deal agreed
Yahoo Italia Sport
Juventus and Udinese are close to an agreement for Marek Jankulovski. According to unconfirmed reports, a principle agreement was concluded in which the Czech midfielder will move to Turin for 8 million (4million up-front) and the co-ownership of 22-year-olds Giuseppe Sculli (on loan at Chievo) and Andrea Gasbarroni (on loan at Palermo).
Davids confirms Milan approach
Edgar Davids' agent has confirmed that he was approached by the Rossoneri for a return to the San Siro.
"It is true that Milan want Edgar for next season," said representative Robert Geerlings. "I can confirm that they have made their interest in my client very clear, but in any case Davids will give priority to Barcelona."
The Dutchman is still owned by Juventus, but he will be out of contract in the summer and could cut his loan spell at Barca short. It is reported that he is aiming for a new four-year deal worth approximately £2.6m per season.
A quick comeback to Serie A was always thought to be on the cards, but up until now the only clubs named were Inter and Roma. It is a surprise move, as Davids left Milan in a cloud of controversy after teammate Alessandro Costacurta referred to him as "a bad apple."
The midfielder joined from Ajax in 1996 and failed to make much of an impact at the San Siro, sitting out for several months with a fractured leg.
Saturday 20 March
Lippi rules out revolution
Juventus have lost sight of all three trophies, but Marcello Lippi insists there is no need for a revolution at the Delle Alpi.
"Our biggest problem is suffering so many crucial injuries during the most intense period of the season," explained the tactician. That creates another issue, as the same men end up playing four games in ten days and that naturally affects performance."
Fabrizio Miccoli has now dropped out of the trip to Udine, but Alessandro Birindelli and David Trezeguet return to the squad. "They are both well and moved well in the game between ranks, so the Frenchman could even start. We really need players to bolster the side."
Morale is very low and after three consecutive defeats between the Champions' League, Scudetto and Coppa Italia a result is desperately needed.
"There have been mistakes," continued the Coach, "but if my players continue to show the same determination and courage that they have up until now, then I cannot ask more of them. We must all stay together now and work together to emerge from this difficult moment. Giving up is not in the Juventus vocabulary."
The Italian press insists that this squad will be split apart during the summer with David Trezeguet and Pavel Nedved sold off to bring in fresh young talent. Lippi is also expected to move on after ending the campaign without a single trophy to add to their packed cabinet.
"I am now accustomed to hearing these sorts of rumours, but nobody should be affected by what is said outside the club. If we fail to win the Coppa Italia then we'll get over it. After all, in my time at Juventus I have never finished lower than second place."
Udinese - Juventus Preview
Having resigned from the Scudetto race after the 3-1 defeat to Milan, Juventus now have their sights on finishing the season in second place. Yet their injury hit squad face a tricky test at Udinese in Week 26 as the other Bianconeri continue to impress.
The Old Lady will be without the injured Trezeguet, Iuliano, Zambrotta and Del Piero. Paolo Montero and Alessandro Birindelli are also doubts after they missed the Coppa Italia final first leg at Lazio on Wednesday.
The good news is that Enzo Maresca and Igor Tudor have got over their injury set-backs and both could feature in some form at the Stadio Friuli. Fabrizio Miccoli should also be in better shape than he was against Milan at the Delle Alpi. Antonio Conte is out with suspension.
Udinese picked up a valuable point at Lazio last week after Vincenzo Iaquinta netted a controversial injury time equaliser. That goal is likely to see him get a starting shirt against Juve alongside Dino Fava in attack. Pieri and Sensini are set to miss the tie with injury, while the highly talented youngster Muntari is suspended.
Soccernet
A demoralised Juventus aim to get their pride back when they take on Udinese at the Friuli Stadium on Saturday. In just two weeks, the defending Serie A champions have watched their hopes of retaining the Italian title dwindle.
Juve's Champions League exit earlier this month seems to have been the catalyst to a downturn in form on the domestic front and last weekend's 3-1 defeat against leaders AC Milan at the Delle Alpi showed what many have believed for sometime - the Bianconeri are not the team of old.
The Coppa Italia does not look likely to provide salvation after Wednesday's 2-0 defeat at the hands of Lazio in the first-leg of the final, a game in which the Biancoceleste also had a penalty saved.
With two months to go to the crucial second-leg, Juve coach Marcello Lippi faces the challenging task of galvanising his team's morale and, more importantly, reducing the club's injury list.
"I have been forced to play the same men for the past month due to the injured players," said Lippi. "In two months time I shall have most of my players available and this will give us a chance to make it."
With rivals Roma just two points clear of Juve and facing a spirited Lazio at the weekend, Lippi's men have an opportunity to climb into second position, which has now become the coach's priority.
Juve may have humiliated Udinese with a 4-1 win earlier this season but Luciano Spalletti's outfit have grown in strength this year.
Udinese fought back from two goals down to salvage a draw against Lazio last weekend and the point kept them in sixth position and ahead of Inter Milan and Sampdoria. And their positive results against the likes of Roma and Inter this year provide another warning that, when it comes to facing the big guns, Udinese are not intimidated.
The Friuli club remain the only Serie A team to have beaten giants AC Milan this season. "Our recent positive results and our current form gives us an added confidence to approach the last nine games with the right determination," said striker Vincenzo Iaquinta, who scored the all-important equaliser last Sunday.
Against Juventus, Udinese have no intentions of taking it easy. "We have no fear when it comes to facing the top teams and we have proved that," said Iaquinta.
Spalletti will be without suspended midfielder Sulley Muntari as well as injured defender Nestor Sensini. But the hosts are hoping influential Chilean midfielder David Pizarro will have recovered from a muscle injury.
Juve will be forced to play with only one forward, Marco Di Vaio, as Fabrizio Miccoli has joined strikers David Trezeguet and Alessandro Del Piero on Juve's injured list. Mark Iuliano, Gianluca Zambrotta and Paolo Montero remain sidelined.
Giant killers gear up for Juve
Udinese have earned themselves the title of giant killers this season and aim to take another scalp when Juventus come to town.
"We have already defeated a lot of the big clubs this year," noted captain Valerio Bertotto, "and our desire to win at all costs will again show itself."
The Friuli outfit are currently the only Serie A side to have beaten Milan, while they have also hammered Inter and held both Roma and Lazio to draws at the Olimpico.
"Juventus are not going through a good time right now, but it would be disastrous and insulting to underestimate them. Concentration and intensity must be maintained throughout the 90 minutes."
The Bianconeri are certainly ripe for a roasting after losing their last three official games in the Champions' League, Serie A and Coppa Italia.
"Juve are like an injured lion," warned Bertotto. "They are dangerous and ready to pounce at any moment."
Trez returns amid contract row
David Trezeguet is back in the Juventus squad for the trip to Udine, but revealed contract talks with the club are stalled.
"All Juve need to do is to keep their promises made three years ago," his father told French newspaper L'Equipe.
"They pledged to renegotiate his deal if the side was successful on the field. Since then Juventus have won two Scudetto titles and reached the Final of the Champions' League, while my son was top scorer in 2002."
It was well known that Trezeguet's contract talks had hit problems, but the situation will come to a head in the summer as his current deal expires in 2005.
If terms are not agreed by June, a move abroad to Barcelona is almost certain.
"The Italian clubs all claim there is a financial crisis on at the moment," added his father, "but Milan and Inter continue to invest. This really doesn't sit well with us."
Meanwhile, Trezeguet will make his comeback from a shoulder injury in Saturday's trip to Udine.
The Frenchman is part of the 19-man squad, but Paolo Montero, Fabrizio Miccoli and the suspended Antonio Conte have not even left Turin.
Juventus squad: Gianluigi Buffon, Ciro Ferrara, Alessio Tacchinardi, Igor Tudor, Gianluca Pessotto, Pavel Nedved, Antonio Chimenti, Enzo Maresca, Alessandro Birindelli, Mauro Camoranesi, David Trezeguet, Stephen Appiah, Marco Di Vaio, Lilian Thuram, Nicola Legrottaglie, Victor Boudianski, Davide Chiumiento, Giovanni Bartolucci, Raffaele Palladino.
Platini has Didier doubts
Juventus legend Michel Platini believes that Didier Deschamps is too inexperienced to Coach the Old Lady.
The Monaco boss has been linked with a move to Turin should Marcello Lippi quit the club this summer.
Yet Platini has told a French newspaper that the former Bianconeri midfielder is not ready for the job.
"This is not the right time for him to take charge of Juventus," he is quoted as saying in L'Equipe.
"He could certainly be an option in a few years time but I don't think he is ready right now for Italy.
"It is one thing to be in charge of a club like Monaco and quite another Coaching in Turin, where there is great pressure on and off the pitch.
"Before he goes and sits on the bench at the Delle Alpi he needs to gain a little more experience."
Speculation is mounting that Lippi could take charge of the Italian national side after the 2004 European Championships.
But Deschamps is not the only contender to take over at the club. Parma's Cesare Prandelli and Gigi Del Neri of Chievo are also possible targets.
Milan want Davids back
Edgar Davids could be on the verge of a shock move to former club Milan, according to reports.
The Gazzetta dello Sport is today suggesting that the Rossoneri are keen on the midfielder who will be available on a free transfer in the summer.
The Dutchman is currently on loan at Barcelona from Juventus, but his Bianconeri deal expires in a matter of months.
The 31-year-old started his Italian career with Milan in 1996 after he joined from Ajax. But he had an unhappy two-year stint at the San Siro before a move to Turin.
Davids does have a number of admirers across Europe. Barca would like to keep him even if Chelsea, Roma and Inter are all known to be keen.
But Milan have suddenly joined the chase as they look to add another ‘free' player to their squad after similar moves in the past.
After all, the Rossoneri have brought in Marcos Cafu, Giuseppe Pancaro and Jon Dahl Tomasson in recent times without paying a transfer fee.
Davids himself has admitted that he has numerous offers on the table which have left the door open for a summer switch.
"The first thing I will do is consider Barca's offer," the midfielder has stated recently. "But there are other sides interested in my signature too."
The international was also asked to comment on rumours that his present club are set to sign David Trezeguet from Juventus.
"Some people believe that it is a certainty," he explained. "Yet I know nothing about it at all."
Del Piero: Juve will return
Alessandro Del Piero has rejected talk that Juventus need to have a
major summer clear out.
The Bianconeri look set to finish the season empty handed, after their first leg 2-0 Coppa Italia defeat to Lazio this week underlined the club's problems.
But their captain insists that the squad still has some quality elements that will see them return to their best next season.
"There is no need for a revolution here," said the No 10. "The fans can remain optimistic because we will be fighting for everything again next term.
"The secret for us is to stay united and have faith in what is happening now and what will happen in the future."
Juventus' season has basically collapsed in the space of a week after three successive defeats.
They were dumped out of the Champions' League after a 1-0 loss to Deportivo. A 3-1 reverse to Milan ended their Scudetto hopes. Then came the Coppa setback.
One of the main problems at the Delle Alpi in the last month has been the number of injured players.
Their treatment room has been so busy that the Bianconeri only had 13 first team players available against Lazio.
One of those missing is Del Piero himself who is currently recovering from a slight calf strain.
"I'm feeling OK," he stated. "I'm having regular checks and I'm hopeful that I will be back soon.
"We just need to concentrate on finishing the League now in the best possible manner."
The Old Lady are third, nine points behind Milan but only two adrift of second placed Roma.
Jankulovski close to Juve deal
Marek Jankulovski has always been one of
Juventus's main transfer targets, and with Inter and Arsenal
pressing for the signature of the Czech Republic player, the
bianconeri will be accelerating the negotations to bring Pavel
Nedved's heir to Turin.
In fact, Juve transfer guru Luciano Moggi will most probably be meeting with the Udinese executives tomorrow before the Udinese-Juventus clash to finalize the details. Juventus are ready to offer cash and a player in exchange for Jankulovski, for a total of 9 million Euros.
Trapattoni plays down Juventus "crisis"
Italy's national team coach, Giovanni Trapattoni, does not believe that his former club, Juventus, are in a crisis. The 65-year-old coach stated: "Juventus are not in a crisis. These are moments I went through and also I finished 3rd or 4th. These are things that happen."
Marseille plan Mexes bid
Marseille are in the market for several big-name signings this summer with Philippe Mexes towards the top of their list of targets.
The classy Auxerre defender has admirers across Europe but l'OM are willing to try and convince the France international to remain in Le Championnat.
Roma and Manchester United are just two of the string of clubs who have long been trailing Mexes and Marseille realise they may need to look elsewhere for a defensive stalwart, despite their strong interest in the player.
Nantes' Mario Yepes is one option with the Colombian shining in Ligue 1 and there are targets in other positions.
Sochaux duo Benoit Pedretti and Pierre-Alain Frau are in l'OM's sights, even though the former is rated at around €5 million, and Eric Carriere, Sabri Lamouchi and Marcelo Gallardo have all been linked with moves in the French press.
Juventus have also been linked with Mexes and Pedretti.
