Serie A Season 2011/2012

[Lavezzi]

Juventus looking to sign Borriello on the cheap
The Serie A champions are ready to snap up the Roma attacker on a permanent basis, but only if the Giallorossi drop their asking price for the Italy international

'Ganso could be a possible target for Milan' - Serginho
The former defender has revealed that the Rossoneri are constantly keeping an eye on the creative midfielder and could make a move for the Brazilian this summer

Hernanes not leaving Lazio, says agent
The Brazilian midfielder's representative has revealed that his client is very happy with life at his current club, and will not be on the move this summer

AC Milan's Abbiati sustains hamstring tear
The experienced goalkeeper has picked up a hamstring problem in last weekend's derby and will consequently be out of action for the remainder of the current campaign

Roma prepare summer swoop for Ajax defender Van der Wiel
The Serie A club are expected to start the bidding at €5 million for the right-back, whose contract has only a year remaining, after a poor season has seen Chelsea lose interest

Inter to open Lavezzi talks after Coppa Italia final - report
The Nerazzurri are believed to have set their sights on the Argentine attacker, and are expected to make their move after the Italian cup final

AC Milan have no intention of selling Pato, insists Serginho
The former Rossoneri full-back believes that the 22-year-old is still held in the highest esteem by the club and is paying little heed to persistent rumours linking him with PSG

Forlan wants to join Atletico Mineiro but transfer will not be straightforward, reveals agent
The struggling Nerazzurri striker, who has managed just two Serie A goals this term, is apparently open to the idea of moving to Belo Horizonte this summer

'Sneijder will join Manchester United this summer' - Sheringham
The ex-Red Devil believes the Dutch midfielder should switch to Old Trafford and suggests the title race is still not over with City facing a tricky test against QPR

I was honoured by Juventus interest but I can see myself finishing my career at Bayern, reveals Robben
The Bianconeri made a big push to lure the former Real Madrid man to Serie A, but the Dutchman has revealed that he was always going to sign a new deal with his Bavarian employers

Nesta expected to announce future plans at press conference on Thursday
The World Cup winner has struggled with a persistent back problem in recent years and there is speculation that he could very well announce his intention to retire from the game

Milito: Stramaccioni has surprised me
The Argentine striker is in awe of the coach's impact and believes that he has helped to improve all sectors of the team, especially attack

Bakaye Traore signs for AC Milan
Nancy have confirmed that the Mali international midfielder will leave the Ligue 1 club on a free transfer in June and will ply his trade at San Siro next season

Camoranesi thrilled with Juventus' Scudetto triumph
The ex-Italy international is over the moon to see his former club win the league title once again and noted that the Bianconeri deserve a third star on their shirts

Agent: There is a 99 per cent chance that Obi will stay at Inter
A move away from San Siro is unlikely to happen, according to the player's representative despite the reported interest from Napoli

Ibrahimovic will stay at AC Milan, claims agent
The Sweden international's representative expects his client to honour his contract with the Rossoneri, despite the club losing out on the Scudetto to Juventus

Corinthians ponder move for Pato - report
The Sao Paulo club are looking to add to their attacking options and are considering making a loan offer for the 22-year-old, who has been plagued by injuries this season

 

[Lavezzi]

I'd nail Juventus' third golden star to Moratti's head, says Moggi

The man at the centre of the refereeing scandal that rocked Italian football in 2006 maintains that the Bianconeri were wrongly stripped of two Scudetti

May 9, 2012 9:20:00 PM

By Mark Doyle

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Former Juventus director Luciano Moggi has weighed into the increasingly heated debate over the club's '30th' Scudetto success, claiming that he would nail the controversial third golden star to Inter president Massimo Moratti's forehead.

The Bianconeri have sparked outrage among many of their rivals by revealing that they intend to sew a third star onto their jerseys in honour of what they feel is their 30th Serie A title, even though they were stripped of two Scudetti because of their alleged involvement in 'Calciopoli'.

However, the man at the centre of that scandal, Moggi, feels that Juve are perfectly entitled to add another star above their crest and dismissed the concerns of Moratti, who earlier this week urged the Turin club not to stir up any more controversy.

“Of course Juventus ought to put the third star on their jerseys,” Moggi told Radio 24. “If it were up to me, I’d nail it to Moratti’s forehead!"

Moggi, who resigned from his position at the end of the 2005-06 season, then claimed some credit for the Old Lady's latest league triumph.

“I’m still in contact with [Juve] president Andrea Agnelli and we spoke after the Scudetto win," he revealed.

"He learned how to be a director from me and Antonio Giraudo. We taught him well.”

Juventus clinched the title with a 2-0 victory over Cagliari in Trieste on Sunday and can now record a double by beating Napoli in the Coppa Italia final in Rome on May 20.

 

[Lavezzi]

Vidal: I came to Juventus to win titles
The Chilean admitted he had always wanted to win the Scudetto and is now targeting victory in the upcoming Coppa Italia final against Napoli

Gattuso and Inzaghi announce AC Milan exits
The experienced duo have confirmed they will be exiting San Siro at the end of the season after more than a decade of service at the Serie A giants

Roma confirm Luis Enrique exit
The Giallorossi have revealed that the former Spain international will leave his position as head coach at the end of the 2011-12 campaign after a sole term at the helm

Pirlo: Allegri preferred Ambrosini & Van Bommel in my position so I left for Juventus
The Juventus playmaker has taken a dig at the Rossoneri coach, while he has nothing but positive words for his current boss at the Bianconeri after his move in 2011

Guarin confident of Inter stay
The Colombia international has little doubts that the Nerazzurri will make his stay at the club permanent at the end of the 2011-12 campaign despite a lack of game time

Newcastle eye move for wantaway Juventus winger Elia
The Dutch winger has made no secret of his desire to leave the Italian champions and Alan Pardew's side are leading the chase for his signature

Former AC Milan goalkeeper Dida still looking for a club
The 38-year-old Brazilian has been a free agent since parting company with the Rossoneri in 2010 but still feels he has plenty to offer at the highest level

Filippo Inzaghi believes he can play on into his forties, reveals brother Simone
The Lazio Allievi coach explains that while his sibling is resigned to leaving the Rossoneri, he is determined to continue his professional career for another couple of seasons

Traore thanks outgoing Mali boss Giresse after sealing AC Milan move
The Frenchman called upon the Nancy midfielder for the Africa Cup of Nations in January - even though the 27-year-old had only just recovered from a bout of malaria

Montella will stay because Catania are a bigger club than Roma, claims president Pulvirenti
The Sicilian outfit's owner is refusing to believe reports that the ex-Giallorossi striker has already spoken with his old side about replacing Luis Enrique at the helm

I'm still in love with Napoli, confesses Maradona
The Argentine legend, who is currently coaching in United Arab Emirates, has revealed that the club he inspired to the Scudetto in 1987 retains a special place in his heart

Lavezzi has never said he wants to leave Napoli, says agent
The Argentine's representative dismissed the notion that his client has met with the Nerazzurri and insisted the player has not aired a wish for a new challenge

Luis Enrique tells players he is to leave Roma - report
The former Barcelona B coach has thrown in the towel after less than a year at the Serie A club, with his decision expected to be formally announced at the weekend

Forlan wants Inter exit, claims father
The 32-year-old Uruguay international has allegedly become frustrated with his lack of opportunities at San Siro and is now eying a move to Brazil, according to his dad

Krasic will leave Serie A in the summer, says agent
The 27-year-old's time in Italy appears set to come to an end, with the Serbian apparently having a number of clubs to choose from at the conclusion of the campaign

Nesta announces AC Milan departure
The 36-year-old centre-back will leave the Rossoneri after a decade at San Siro, with a new adventure in MLS seemingly a strong possibility

 

[Lavezzi]

Serie A preview: Juve eye perfect season, fourth up for grabs

11 May 2012

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Champions Juventus look to complete their undefeated season in Serie A as four teams vie for the final Champions League spot.Juventus returned to the summit of Italian football last Sunday with a 2-0 win at Cagliari putting them four points clear of AC Milan, ahead of their last fixture with Atalanta. But, it is the battle for third place between Udinese, Lazio, Napoli and Inter Milan that is intriguing this weekend.

Udinese are in the box seat with a two-point gap over Lazio and Napoli, and three over Inter, needing only a draw away at Catania on Sunday to take third place and the final spot. If Udinese draw, a win for Lazio in their clash with Inter would still not be enough to take them through given the league decided to use head-to-head records when sides finish level on points, rather than goal difference.

However, an Udinese loss would bring Napoli and Lazio back into the fold. Despite being a point behind Lazio, Napoli has a superior head-to-head record with Udinese meaning a win over Siena at home, provided Udinese lose, would ensure their passage to European's top competition. Complicating the equation further is the fact Inter too has a superior record over Udinese.

Their hopes hinge on defeating Lazio, Udinese losing and Napoli failing to win. Udinese have had another remarkable season under head coach Francesco Guidolin, accommodating for the loss of key players Gokhan Inler (Napoli) and Alexis Sanchez (Barcelona). "Nothing is decided, everything is still to be achieved," Guidolin said on the race for third spot.

"We just have to prepare well and be ready in our head, legs and heart. There is still a long road ahead of us. "If Juventus avoid defeat for a 39th consecutive game in the league, against Atalanta, they would become only the second team to win Serie A without losing a match. Fabio Capello's AC Milan were the last team to achieve the feat in the 1991-92 season while Perugia also went unbeaten in 1978-79 but finished second in a 16-team league.

Antonio Conte's side can also seal the double if they defeat AC Milan in the Coppa Italia final on May 20.At the other end of the table, the relegation fate of Novara and Cesena has been sealed with Lecce the final side set to go down, barring a combination of results to resign Genoa to the drop, albeit very unlikely.

 

[Inzaghi]

Serie A wrap: Juventus complete unbeaten season

14 May 2012

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Juventus have ended their title-winning season unbeaten after a 3-1 victory over Atalanta including a goal from Alessandro Del Piero.

The outgoing 37-year-old, who has played over 500 games for Juventus, scored his side's second goal as they won their 23rd game of the season.

Juventus needed to avoid a loss to Atalanta to complete their season undefeated and Luca Marrone put them on their way with a goal in the 10th minute.

Del Piero doubled the home side's lead with a curled shot from outside the penalty area in the 28th minute, which sparked huge celebrations among the Juventus supporters.

An own goal from Juventus defender Stephan Lichtsteiner in the 83rd minute gave Atalanta a chance of snatching a draw but Andrea Barzagli's 90th-minute penalty wrapped up the home side's win.

Juventus finished the season with 23 wins and 15 draws from 38 matches to win the Serie A undefeated.

AC Milan came from behind to win 2-1 against Novara. Santiago Garcia put the visitors in front in the 20th minute and Novara held on to remain 1-0 ahead at the break.

But Mathieu Flamini's 56th-minute equaliser and a winner in the 82nd minute from Filippo Inzaghi ensured Milan's victory. In Fiorentina, the home side held on for a 0-0 draw with Cagliari.More to follow

 

[Lavezzi]

Del Piero: I could not have wished for a better farewell
The veteran attacker scored in his last Serie A game for Juventus before leaving the pitch to a standing ovation from the fans

Del Piero & Inzaghi wave goodbye as winners in fairytale ending
The two giants of the game said their farewells to Serie A on Sunday with a goal apiece as the home fans got the last word they wanted from their heroes

Zambrotta: I have played my last game for AC Milan
The experienced defender will leave the Rossoneri on a free transfer this summer, but has no intention of hanging up his boots just yet

La Grande Juve: Antonio Conte's men join the greats of Calcio with invincible season
The Old Lady completed the 2011-12 season unbeaten, marking them out as one of the most remarkable outfits in Serie A history

Zanetti: Inter were bound to have a poor season sooner or later
The Argentine is looking forward to next year after the Nerazzurri failed to win a trophy for the first time since the 2005-06 campaign

Seedorf confirms AC Milan exit
The 36-year-old Dutchman, who joined the club in 2002 from Inter, will be leaving the Rossoneri this summer, but has every intention of continuing his career elsewhere

I thank Pirlo for his hard work but I don't care what he says anymore, claims Allegri
The Italy international admitted earlier this week that he can not work out why he was deemed surplus to requirements at San Siro by the Rossoneri boss

We will do everything to sign Tevez, reveals Galliani
The Rossoneri tried to sign the forward in January, while he was still in dispute with the Premier League outfit, but the deal collapsed over the asking price

Inter confirm Forlan talks with Atletico Mineiro
The 32-year-old striker has failed to settle at the Giuseppe Meazza following his move from Atletico Madrid last summer, and is now said to be keen to return to South America

Juventus fans can relax as I'm happy in Turin, insists Real Madrid target Vidal
According to Bianconeri director Beppe Marotta, the Liga champions are keen on the 24-year-old midfielder, but the Chilean claims he has no desire to move

Gattuso wants to rejoin Rangers
The 34-year-old, who has spent 13 years at Milan, revealed that he is keen on making a return to Scotland, but that a move is "difficult" because of the club's financial situation

Mazzarri: Anything can happen in the hunt for third place
The Partenopei's trainer is feeling positive ahead of his side's final game of the season and also claims Ezequiel Lavezzi is focused on the club despite transfer speculation

Stramaccioni: Lazio game is start of Inter rebirth
The former Primavera trainer has identified the side's upcoming game as an important one in helping the Nerazzurri return to their glories of the recent past

Genoa's Kakha Kaladze announces retirement from football
The 34 year old former AC Milan defender has announced his decision to retire at the end of the season, in order to dedicate his time to politics in his native Georgia

AC Milan coach Allegri confirms signing of Montolivo for 2012-13 season
The Rossoneri boss has claimed that the Fiorentina star, whose contract expires in June, will be plying his trade at San Siro in 2012-13, moving on the Bosman ruling

Van Bommel announces he will leave AC Milan and return to PSV
The Dutch midfielder is the latest to confirm his departure from the Rossoneri and states he will return to his homeland after this summer's European Championship

Giovinco refuses to rule out Juventus switch
The talented attacker, who is co-owned by the Bianconeri, has been in blistering form in Serie A this season, but is unsure where he will play his football next season

They were in Manchester, they were in Athens, and they'll be in AC Milan hearts forever: Goodbye Gattuso, Inzaghi, Seedorf & Nesta
In the space of just a few days, the departures of four of the Rossoneri's greatest pillars have been confirmed, making for an emotional farewell from San Siro on Sunday

Cavani: Coppa Italia final against Juventus the most important game of the season
The Uruguayan hitman is ready to do all he can to help Napoli to glory, and feels that his team have the right mentality to beat the Scudetto winners next Sunday

Official: Luis Enrique confirms Roma exit
The Spaniard has revealed to the press that he will step down from his position as coach of the Italian capital club after just one season in charge of the Giallorossi

We can win the Europa League if we do not qualify for the Champions League, says Inter's Guarin
The Colombia international is on loan at the Nerazzurri from Porto, and believes his team can still be successful even if they do not qualify for Europe's elite tournament

'Opponents, never enemies' - Del Piero salutes outgoing AC Milan stars Nesta, Gattuso and Inzaghi
The Rossoneri's legendary trio have all confirmed that they will leave the San Siro outfit in the upcoming transfer window, and received praised from the Bianconeri forward

Conte takes swipe at Allegri: We did our talking on the pitch
The former Bianconeri midfielder has attacked his Rossoneri counterpart for speaking about his hopes of securing a second golden star for his side in the coming years

Milan's Cassano: I feared I might never see my son again
The forward also revealed he believes the Rossoneri would have won the title had they not been beset by injuries and that Pato is second only to Messi in terms of talent

Replacing Nesta a great responsibility, admits Thiago Silva
The Brazilian has nothing but respect and admiration for the World Cup winner, who confirmed at a press conference on Thursday that he will be leaving San Siro this summer

I didn't get on with Cambiasso at all, reveals Thiago Motta
The Italy international, who left San Siro in January, has explained that he was on friendly terms with Walter Samuel, Javier Zanetti and Diego Milito, but nobody else

Seedorf agent: Financial issues not a key factor in Botafogo move
The veteran midfielder is out of contract at the end of the season, and a move to the Rio de Janeiro giants appears to be the most likely outcome

Ancelotti: Paris Saint-Germain will try to sign Pato again in June
The French club have not yet given up on securing the services of the 22-year-old striker and will put together a new offer for the Brazilian once the season comes to an end

Samuel signs new Inter contract until 2013
The 34-year-old Argentine has committed his future to the club for one more year, and the Nerazzurri have the option to extend the deal for another season

Yepes signs one-year extension with AC Milan
The experienced centre-back has penned a new contract with the Rossoneri despite having featured infrequently for the Serie A giants this season

Moratti promised Forlan he could leave Inter, claims Atletico Mineiro president
The Brazilian club's chairman says that the Nerazzurri will listen to offers for the striker, but admits that there are more clubs after the Uruguayan

Vidal: Juventus have proven they are better than AC Milan
The Chilean admitted he had always wanted to win the Scudetto and is now targeting victory in the upcoming Coppa Italia final against Napoli at the Stadio Olimpico

Gattuso and Inzaghi announce AC Milan exits
The experienced duo have confirmed they will be exiting San Siro at the end of the season after more than a decade of service at the Serie A giants

 

[Lavezzi]

Juventus complete the Serie A season unbeaten following home win over Atalanta

The Bianconeri's 3-1 victory means they have become only the third team in Italian history not to lose a single game all season, and the first in a 38-game campaign

May 13, 2012 3:55:00 PM

By Kris Voakes

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Juventus beat Atalanta 3-1 in their final league game of the season to record only the third ever unbeaten campaign in Serie A history.

Goals from Luca Marrone, departing club captain Alessandro Del Piero and Andrea Barzagli defeated Stefano Colantuono's side and saw the Bianconeri record their 38th game this term without defeat.

They become the first team to complete the season unbeaten in a 20-team Serie A, with Perugia chalking up the first such record in a 30-game campaign in 1978-79 and AC Milan's 1991-92 achievement coming over 34 matches.

Juve have won 23 and drawn 15 of their 38 games this term, and including their 2-2 draw against Napoli on the final day of last season, they are now unbeaten in 39 matches stretching back to a 1-0 defeat at Parma on May 15, 2011.

Antonio Conte is yet to preside over a loss since taking over as Juventus coach last May, with a 2-1 defeat to Milan in the Coppa Italia semi-final second leg their only loss over 90 minutes, and even then a 2-2 draw after extra-time saw them progress to next week's final against Napoli in Rome.

The departing Del Piero was given a fantastic ovation when he was substituted in the 57th minute, spending several minutes taking the fans' applause as he made a lap of honour with the gap still being played.

 

[Lavezzi]

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[Lavezzi]

AC Milan reject report that Allegri wants Ibrahimovic sold
It had been claimed that the Sweden international, who has been linked with a move away from San Siro, has fallen out with his boss and several team-mates

'You've made my dream come true' - Del Piero sends emotional thank you to Juventus fans
The 37-year-old has expressed his gratitude to the Bianconeri faithful as his 19-year stay at the Turin giants will come to an end this weekend in the Coppa Italia final

Inter prepare €9m offer for Franck Tabanou
The Nerazzurri are looking to add some fresh blood to their squad this summer, and the French wing-back could be their first defensive reinforcement for the new season

Stramaccioni: Moratti has clear plans on how to help Inter return to greatness
The young coach has dismissed suggestions that the Nerazzurri patron is unwilling to invest in the squad as he assured that the club will be fighting for trophies again next term

Chivu to decide Inter future this week, reveals agent
The 31-year-old Romanian will be a free agent this summer and has reportedly attracted interest from around Europe, but he could yet opt to remain at San Siro

Allegri: Coaching Messi and Ronaldo is the dream, but I'm pleased with my lot
The Rossoneri saw many legendary figures leave the club over the weekend, leaving the coach relieved that the Swede and the Brazilian are going nowhere

Inter's Forlan denies Atletico Mineiro transfer talks
The Uruguayan, who has struggled for form and fitness since arriving in Italy last summer, is in no doubt that he will still be at Appiano Gentile next season

Bojan: My future at Roma does not depend on who the next coach will be
The young striker does not have any plans to leave the Stadio Olimpico anytime soon and revealed that he was satisfied with his first season in Serie A

Van Bommel rejoins PSV from AC Milan
The 35-year-old defensive midfielder has returned to Eindhoven from the Rossoneri on a one-year contract, seven years after departing the Philips Stadion for Barcelona

Chiellini to miss Coppa Italia final but hopes to return in time for Euro 2012
The Italian defender will miss the cup decider against Napoli through injury, but will work hard to be fit in time for the European Championship

Ibrahimovic: I did not play my last match with AC Milan on Sunday
The 30-year-old Sweden international has intimated that he will stay with the Rossoneri, while restating that he was disappointed that the club did not win the Scudetto

Gattuso: I decided to leave AC Milan after derby defeat to Inter
The combative midfielder does not feel he belongs to the team any longer and repeated his dream to return to Scottish club Rangers

Cambiasso: Inter can't afford another bad season
The experienced midfielder has admitted that the Nerazzurri have made mistakes this term, and stressed that they have to improve in 2012-13

Buffon: My future is with Juventus
The experienced goalkeeper has insisted that he has no intention to leave the Bianconeri, and feels the 2011-12 campaign was one of his best-ever performances

Catania coach Montella: I have a weakness for Roma
The former Giallorossi centre forward has admitted he would like to succeed Luis Enrique in the dugout, but acknowledged that he is still under contract at Catania

Inter want to bounce back next season, says Diego Milito
The Argentine expressed his disappointment with his side's performances this term, but assured that he and his team-mates will fight for silverware again next season

Galliani: It's the end of an era for AC Milan
The Rossoneri CEO feels that the exit of a number of iconic first-team regulars he described as "good men" will signal the end of a cycle for the Italian giants

Fabio Capello's AC Milan, 'Il Grande Torino' - where do Juventus' Invincibles rank with the greatest Serie A teams of all time?
Having become only the third side to go through an entire Serie A season undefeated, Antonio Conte's men are now assured of their place in the history books

Chiellini ruled out of Coppa Italia final, confirms Conte
The towering defender picked up a knock in Sunday's Serie A win over Atalanta, and his coach has now revealed that he will not play a part in the cup final against Napoli

AC Milan wanted me last year, claims Hamsik
The Slovakia international has disclosed that he was on the Rossoneri's wishlist last season but insists he is fully committed to his current club and their project

Roma director Sabatini: Catania's Montella is a serious candidate for coaching role
The Giallorossi official has confirmed that the club will try to appoint the young trainer, but admitted that it will depend on whether his employers will release him

Inter boss Stramaccioni: Sixth place is not satisfactory
The 36-year-old has indicated that the team must improve next season, while lamenting that his side wasted so many chances against the Biancocelesti

 

[Lavezzi]

Hamsik: I want to be Napoli's Del Piero
The Slovakia international is full of praise for the Juventus legend ahead of the Coppa Italia final, and has set his sights on reaching a similar status at the Partenopei

Doumbia refuses to rule out Roma move
The Cote d'Ivoire international prefers to move to a club that plays in the Champions League, but admitted that the Giallorossi could be a possible destination as well

Roma close in on Montella after he agrees two-year €7.2m deal to be new coach
The Giallorossi are negotiating a compensation package after Andre Villas-Boas was ruled out and the Catania boss targets three players from his current club to take with him

I'd like to play with Lavezzi at Inter, says Milito
The Argentine striker would welcome the summer arrival of his compatriot from Napoli, while also championing the return of youngster Mattia Destro to the Nerazzurri

Zanetti: Lavezzi knows Inter's importance in world football
The 38-year-old utility man believes that his compatriot would be a quality addition to his side, while admitting that Destro deserves a new chance at San Siro

Moratti says Inter will not break the bank for Lavezzi
The Nerazzurri chief confirmed that his side are keen to sign the striker, but stressed that the club will not overspend in order to land the Argentina international

Higuain in talks over Juventus move - report
The Bianconeri have reportedly begun procedures with a view to signing the Argentine striker who has been strongly linked with a new challenge in the summer

Juventus reportedly set sights on Lens midfielder Geoffrey Kondogbia
The Serie A champions are keen to bolster their midfield options in the summer and have identified the young Frenchman as a potential candidate ahead of the 2012-13 campaign

Official: Inter sign Porto's Fredy Guarin
The Nerazzurri have exercised their buying option for the 25-year-old, who spent the second half of the 2011-12 campaign on loan at the San Siro outfit

Our doors are always open for prestigious players like Gattuso, reveals Boca Juniors director
The World Cup winner has parted company with the Rossoneri after 13 years at San Siro, and is set to be offered the opportunity to continue his career in Argentina

Reja: My Lazio adventure is over
The former Napoli boss, who arrived at the Stadio Olimpico in 2010, had been expected to leave the club in February, but he was eventually persuaded to remain at the helm

Agent: Pazzini to ponder Inter future this summer
Having been left out of the Italy squad for Euro 2012 after a Serie A campaign which yielded just five goals, the 27-year-old striker is mulling over whether to remain at San Siro

Manchester City keeping tabs on Giovinco, reveals agent
The 25-year-old attacker is expected to rejoin Juve this summer, but the Premier League champions have become the latest club to make an enquiry about the Italy international

Cavani: If Napoli do not release me for the Olympics I will kick up a fuss and go there anyway
The Uruguay international has made it clear in no uncertain terms to the Partenopei that he will be representing his country at the Games, whether they like it or not

Playing alongside Pirlo next season would be fantastic, admits Verratti
The 19-year-old has often been compared to his older counterpart, and has now affirmed suggestions that he has modelled his game after the Juve man

Inter keeping tabs on Manchester City duo Kolarov & De Jong - report
The Nerazzurri are looking to add some fresh blood to their squad this summer, and have reportedly earmarked the Serbian and the Dutchman as potential signings

Official: AC Milan sign Riccardo Montolivo & Bakaye Traore
With a midfield exodus set to take place in the summer, the Rossoneri have acted quickly to bring in replacements for the outgoing duo of Mark van Bommel and Gennaro Gattuso

Genoa's Destro open to Inter return
The young attacker has attracted the interest of a number of Serie A sides with his good performances for Siena this term, but has yet to make a decision on his future

Marchisio: Juventus' hunger for success was decisive in Scudetto race
The Italy international believes that the Old Lady's determination to lift silverware drove the team to success in the Serie A title race as he now looks for cup glory

Leonardo: Paris Saint-Germain have not lodged any bid for Lavezzi
The former Brazil midfielder admitted that the striker is "an interesting player", but insisted that his side have not yet made a move for the in-demand Argentine

Fabio Cannavaro: Juventus have won 30 Scudetti
The retired defender is thrilled to see his former club win the league title again, and says that he takes into consideration the two titles lost after the Calciopoli scandal

Lucio poised to leave Inter in the summer, says agent
The 34-year-old defender is keen to put an end to his time at San Siro, but a new European stint is allegedly at the top of his preferences

Allegri certain he will remain as coach of AC Milan
The Italian affirmed that he will remain in charge of the Rossoneri despite the club's disappointing season, and stressed he has the backing of the board

Buffon: There will never be another title like this Scudetto
The Italian goalkeeper is overjoyed to see his side return to the top of Italian football, while saying that he still has plenty of years left in his career

Montella is the right man for Roma, says De Rossi
The Italian international believes the former Giallorossi player and coach will be the correct choice to take the reins at the capital club

Inter have signed Guarin permanently, says agent
The Serie A giants have allegedly taken up the option to buy the 25-year-old outright, despite the fact that he has spent most of his spell at San Siro on the sidelines

Ambrosini signs new contract with AC Milan
The former Italy international, who succeeded Paolo Maldini as Rossoneri skipper in the summer of 2009, has extended his stay at San Siro for a further 12 months

Inter have first option on Destro, reveals Genoa director
The Rossoblu have claimed that there is already an agreement in place with Nerazzurri president Massimo Moratti should the Ligurians opt to cash in on the 21-year-old striker

Maxi Lopez keen to make AC Milan move permanent
The 28-year-old wants to extend his stay at San Siro but the Rossoneri have yet to decide if they are willing to stump up a further €8 million for his services

Pinilla desperate to stay at Cagliari
The Rosanero allowed the Chilean to swap Sicily for Sardinia in January but the forward has since rediscovered his goalscoring touch, netting eight times for the Rossoblu

Capello hints Inter talks broke down because of Moratti
The former England manager has explained that he spoke with the oil tycoon about becoming the Nerazzurri's next permanent boss but the pair failed to reach an agreement

Galliani considering making Ibrahimovic AC Milan captain - report
It has been claimed that the Italian wants the striker out but he has apparently already spoken with the player about leading the Rossoneri next season

Conte is on the same level as Mourinho, says Vialli
The former Italy international feels the Juventus coach is on the same level as the Portuguese trainer after leading the Bianconeri to the Scudetto in his first season in charge

Stramaccioni: Lucas & Lavezzi would fit in well at Inter
The Nerazzurri coach has admitted that he would like to add the creative duo to his roster this summer as he believes they could "really transform the team"

Seedorf: I don't rule out staying at AC Milan
The Dutch midfielder is determined to continue playing for at least two more seasons, and could even stay with the Rossoneri despite previously stating he would leave San Siro

Pirlo: Juventus want to lift the Coppa Italia
The influential midfielder has stressed that the Old Lady are targeting the Italian cup in order to complete the domestic double but warned that Napoli will provide a stern test

Van der Wiel turns down chance to join Roma
The Netherlands international has admitted there has been contact with the Giallorossi, but he has set his sights on a move to a team that will play Champions League football

Cassano: I wanted to quit football
The Italian striker explained that he was 'the happiest man in the world' when he returned to the field, but confessed that he considered retiring as he feared for his life

Juventus should not retire the number 10 shirt, says Pirlo
The Old Lady directors considered retiring the iconic jersey, but the Italian forward asked the club to keep it available, an opinion shared by the former Milan man

Alejandro Gomez's agent reveals Inter and Atletico Madrid interest
The Argentine midfielder is highly coveted in Europe, with the Nerazzurri and los Rojiblancos having already expressed an interest, according to his representative

Seedorf agrees financial terms with Botafogo - report
The ex-Inter, Real Madrid and Ajax star is coming to the end of his current contract, and reports from Brazil suggest that Rio de Janeiro will be his next destination

Re-signing Robinho still a distant dream, admits Santos president
The Brazil international reportedly wants to return to the club where he made his name, but the Rossoneri's refusal to let him leave on loan remains a major stumbling block

Fiorentina retain a special place in my heart, reveals Ranieri
The former Chelsea boss is open to the idea of rejoining the Viola, having led the club out of Serie B in 1994 and into Europe following their Coppa Italia success two years later

 

[Lavezzi]

Sneijder offers himself to AC Milan
The Netherlands international is considering the possibilities of a move to the Rossoneri, but Inter are unlikely to sell the playmaker to their cross-town rivals

Juventus' Agnelli: The days of big-money transfers are behind us
The Bianconeri supremo believes that the global recession will influence the football world, as he hailed Juve as one of the most successful teams ever in the game

Acerbi awaiting agent's confirmation on AC Milan move
The 24-year-old Chievo defender, who only arrived in Verona last summer as part of a co-ownership deal with Genoa, is on the verge of joining the Rossoneri

Borini: I want to stay at Roma
The forward was one of the Giallorossi's better performers during a disappointing 2011-12 campaign, and he would like to remain at the Stadio Olimpico next season

Verratti wants to remain at Pescara for another season
The teenager is reportedly on the verge of joining Juve but has confessed he might not yet be ready to deal with the pressure that comes with playing for a big club

Zola has not spoken to Lazio since February, insists agent
The representative of the 45-year-old Italian believes that it is now highly unlikely that the Chelsea legend will take charge of the Biancocelesti, given so much time has passed

I feel Italian and will defend the Azzurri shirt forever, says Schelotto
The winger was born in Buenos Aires but argues his patriotism is beyond dispute, explaining that he owes his adopted nation for welcoming him and his family so warmly

Hamsik will definitely stay at Napoli, insists agent
The 24-year-old attacking midfielder is coveted by many of Europe's top clubs but his representative insists that the Slovakia international is not going anywhere this summer

Giovinco has received an offer from Barcelona, says agent
The Blaugrana are allegedly serious about signing the diminutive attacker, but his representative stressed that the 25-year-old's future will be decided after Euro 2012

Gattuso's agent dismisses Lazio reports
The Italian holding midfielder has allegedly not been approached by the Biancocelesti as he remains in the dark regarding his next destination in the upcoming transfer window

Roberto Mancini meets with Adriano Galliani at AC Milan's headquarters
The Premier League title-winning trainer had a brief meeting with the Rossoneri official at Via Turati, but he guaranteed that he was not in discussions over Ibrahimovic

Napoli president De Laurentiis hints at Lavezzi exit
The Partenopei chief conceded that the striker will leave if his buy-out clause is met and noted that the Argentine's stint with the team has been very positive

Inter close to signing Rodrigo Palacio - report
The Nerazzurri are on the brink of securing the Argentine's services for an estimated €11m after fending off an approach from Roma in what will be Stramaccioni's first transfer

Juventus are interested in Neymar, confirms Santos president
The man at the helm of the Brazilian club revealed that the Turin giants are just one of the teams interested in the precocious starlet but refused to divulge further information

David Pizarro: I want to end my career at Roma
The on-loan midfielder has admitted that he wishes to conclude his playing career at the Giallorossi, despite being farmed out on loan to Manchester City in January

There will never be another Del Piero: Juventus say arrivederci to the most loved player in their history
The legendary captain ended his career with the Bianconeri without the Coppa Italia in tow, but the Scudetto was reward enough after 19 great years with the club

Marchisio: Napoli penalty changed the game
The Italy international was not impressed with the referee's performance in Sunday's Coppa Italia final, but felt Juve still had an "incredible season" after winning Serie A

Mazzarri: It seemed unthinkable to beat Juventus this season
The Italian coach said that the Partenopei were the underdogs going into the domestic cup match, while revealing that he will not depart the club during the summer

Antonio Conte: We have to be angry following Napoli defeat
The 42-year-old did not hide his frustration at seeing the Bianconeri lose their final match of the season as they failed to add the domestic cup to their Scudetto triumph

Forza Napoli! Juventus denied the double as Cavani & Hamsik secure a victory for football
The Partenopei defeated Juventus at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome on Sunday night to claim their first significant piece of silverware since the days of Diego Maradona

Pescara join Torino in securing Serie A promotion
The Czech-born coach has succeeded in guiding the club to the top tier of Italian football with one match left to play before Serie B comes to an end

Conte's renewal is a formality, says Juventus director Marotta
The Bianconeri official is confident that the young coach will commit his long-term future to the club after he enjoyed success in his first year in charge

Pastore wants Higuain and Lavezzi at Paris Saint-Germain
The former Palermo ace made no secret that he wants to see his compatriots at the Parc des Princes and said the club will become a powerhouse by 2015

Gattuso on Lazio radar - report
The experienced midfielder will say farewell to AC Milan this summer, but could remain in Serie A as the Europa League hopefuls are keen on signing him

Torino secure promotion to Serie A
The Granata return to Italy's top flight for the 2012-13 campaign after recording a 2-0 home win over Modena at the weekend to secure a top-two finish

Galliani: Alexandre Pato will stay at Milan
The Brazilian's future has been the source of much speculation recently, but the Rossoneri CEO is keen to stress that the striker will remain with the club

Juventus set for Asamoah talks - report
The Ghana midfielder is one of the most sought-after names in Italy, and the new champions are hoping to tempt the Zebrette by including two of their players in a potential deal

I hope to write another page in Juventus' history in Coppa Italia final, says Del Piero
The legendary attacker, who is set to leave the Bianconeri in the summer, has revealed that he would like to depart the club having triumphed against the Partenopei on Sunday

AC Milan reportedly sign Cruzeiro's Gabriel
The Rossoneri are believed to have wrapped up a deal for the Brazil Under-20 international, thus ending their pursuit of a third-choice goalkeeper following Flavio Roma's departure

Corinthians prepare loan offer for Pato - report
The Sao Paulo outfit are interested in bolstering their attacking options and will try to convince the Rossoneri to let the young striker leave in the summer

Buffon: My future will always be with Juventus
The veteran shot-stopper insisted that he still has lots to accomplish with the Turin-based outfit and hopes to add the Coppa Italia to the Bianconeri's trophy cabinet this season

Catania president unwilling to let Montella leave for Roma job
The Sicilian supremo has insisted that he will not let go of the young coach despite receiving an approach from the Giallorossi

Thiago Silva has many suitors, reveals AC Milan's Galliani
The Rossoneri supremo has stated that he is ready to knock back any attempts to sign the Brazilian, who has become an integral part of the club's defence since his arrival

Sneijder: I am happy at Inter and feel part of the group
The Netherlands international has stated that he has no plans to move away from the Giuseppe Meazza outfit this summer, and is looking forward to Euro 2012

AC Milan's Seedorf admits he keeps his options open
The 36-year-old announced last week that he will leave the club, bringing an end to a trophy-laden ten-year stint, but stated that he is assessing every option about a move

Capello: Real Madrid's Higuain would be an ideal signing for Juventus
The Argentina international has been linked with a move away from the Santiago Bernabeu this season, and the former Bianconeri coach believes the striker would be a great purchase

Balotelli: I love Italy, but I will stay at Manchester City
The controversial forward has been linked with a return to his homeland after a number of shenanigans, but ruled out a move away from the Premier League champions

Totti: I am the last of my generation in Serie A
The Roma attacker has admitted that he is sad to see the departure of fellow veterans Alessandro Nesta, Filippo Inzaghi and Alessandro Del Piero, but vowed to continue playing

Al Ahli not in the race for Del Piero's signature
The Red Knights famously brought Fabio Cannavaro to Dubai but insist they are not in the running to sign the 37-year-old former Italy international who is out of contract

Edy Reja rejects Fiorentina stories
The former Biancocelesti trainer guaranteed that he has not been in touch with the Florence-based club and noted he may take a break from coaching

Teenage prospect Sosa to join Dybala in Palermo
The Sicilians have secured the services of highly-rated South American prospects in attack as Zamparini heralds the team's intense activity in transfer market this summer

Manchester City have not asked about Ibrahimovic, says Galliani
The Rossoneri official says that the Citizens have not come knocking at his door for the striker and believes that the Sweden international will win major titles with the club

Gattuso gives up on Rangers 'dream' return, says agent
The midfielder's chances of moving back to the Scottish side are allegedly very slim, but his representative has intimated that there are many clubs after his client

Cut-price Rossi now an 'appetising prospect' for clubs, claims agent
The 25-year-old striker tore his anterior cruciate ligament for the second time in six months during training last month, and is now expected to be out of action until March 2013

AC Milan must not sell both Thiago Silva and Ibrahimovic, warns Maldini
The Rossoneri legend is perturbed by the prospect of losing the star duo, with Barcelona still said to be keen on the Brazilian and Real Madrid allegedly sniffing around the Swede

Agent: Gago has agreed terms with Roma and will never return to Real Madrid after being disrespected by Mourinho
The Argentine's representative has claimed that the former Boca Juniors starlet was mistreated by the Blancos boss and is now desperate to seal his move to the Olimpico

Zanetti indifferent to Juventus' desire to add third star on jersey
The Bianconeri have provoked an angry response from many leading figures within the game by refusing to acknowledge that they were stripped of two Scudetti because of Calciopoli

I was thrilled that 80,000 people told me I should stay at Real Madrid, reveals Higuain
The Argentina international has fallen down the striking pecking order at Los Blancos this season and is now reportedly considering offers from Paris Saint-Germain and Juventus

Traore ready to fight for place at AC Milan
The Mali international admits that he was surprised to hear the Italian side was following him, but is determined to prove his worth at San Siro next season

 

[Lavezzi]

Antonio Conte signs Juventus extension until 2015
The 42-year-old has signed a three-year contract with the Italian champions after enjoying a dream start to life in Turin

Shakhtar Donetsk want Lavezzi, says Mircea Lucescu
The Romanian coach admitted that he is interested in the Argentine striker and added that Douglas Costa could be used as bait in a part-exchange deal

Montreal Impact sign Marco Di Vaio as first ever Designated Player
The former Italy striker will become the Impact’s first-ever Designated Player and will be eligible to play after June 27

Juventus open talks with Siena and Genoa over Destro
The Serie A champions are keen to take the promising striker to Turin, but will have to be wary of reported interest from the Nerazzurri, who have first option on the player

Caen's Heurtaux announces Udinese move
The French defender lamented that he leaves les Malherbes after they were relegated to Ligue 2, but admitted that the offer from the Italian side was too good to reject

Van Gaal in the frame for Lazio coaching job - report
The Serie A outfit see the successful Dutchman as a suitable candidate to replace Edy Reja at the helm of the Stadio Olimpico but remain linked to Zola and Gasperini

Balotelli: I would reject Milan to stay with Manchester City
The Italian has been the subject of fierce speculation but insists he wants to remain with Roberto Mancini's side and would say no to any move back to his homeland

Referees to undergo pre-game drug screenings
Fifa medical chiefs have revealed new plans to put officials through stringent examinations to test for banned, performance-enhancing substances which are illegal for players

Inter join AC Milan in race for Ogbonna
The Italy international is continually being linked with a move to a bigger club, and has now caught the attention of the Nerazzuri, who are preparing a part-exchange proposal

Juventus to offer Cavani five-year €30m deal
The Old Lady continue to pursue the Uruguay international, and are ready to make the attacker one of the highest-paid players in Serie A in order to lure him to Turin

Conte agrees to three-year Juventus contract renewal - report
The Scudetto winner is believed to have reached an agreement on a new deal that will keep him at Juve for three more seasons and make him the highest paid trainer in Serie A

Stankovic denies interest in MLS move
The 33-year-old midfielder had some injury problems over the past year and is no longer first choice for the Nerazzurri but he has no intention of leaving San Siro

Galliani meets with Sahin's agent - report
The 23-year-old midfielder, who has struggled to settle at the Santiago Bernabeu since arriving from Borussia Dortmund last year, has previously been linked with Inter

Inter have offered Pazzini to Lazio as part of Zarate transfer, claims agent
The Argentine has spent the season on loan at San Siro and the Nerazzurri retain the right to sign him, but they now want the Biancocelesti to accept a player-plus-cash deal

Witsel flattered by AC Milan link
The 23-year-old midfielder, who joined the Portuguese outfit from Standard Liege last year, is said to be of interest to the Rossoneri, as they look to revamp their squad

Agent dismisses talk of Barcelona move for Jose Angel
It has been claimed that Luis Enrique's departure has unsettled the left-back, but the 22-year-old's representative claims the Spaniard wants to remain in the Italian capital

Juventus will try to win the Champions League, says Marotta
The Bianconeri official stated that the club will try to go as far as possible in the competition, and that they are considering a number of options to bolster the team's attack

AC Milan: Alexandre Pato has made a full recovery
The Brazilian forward appears to have put an injury-plagued period behind him and is in line to feature for the Selecao in the country's upcoming friendlies

Maxi Lopez looking for new club after AC Milan snub
The Argentine has been left to ponder his future after the Rossoneri confirmed they would not be taking up their option to sign him permanently

Stramaccioni praises enthusiasm of Indonesian supporters
The 36-year-old trainer was impressed by the rapturous greeting his club received on their arrival in Southeast Asia

Zanetti: Palacio is a terrific player
The 38-year-old defender thinks that his compatriot would be a quality addition to the Nerazzurri squad as the striker appears poised to move to San Siro

Robinho has held discussions over Santos loan move
Links pairing the former Manchester City man with a return to Brazil have intensified after it was reported the Peixe president has talked about the proposal with the player

Atletico Mineiro make formal approach for Forlan
The Belo Horizonte club have tabled a contract worth around €2 million a year to tempt the Uruguay international to Brazil, although their president admits a deal is unlikely

AC Milan will reject all bids for Thiago Silva, says Galliani
The Rossoneri official stated that there has been an 'assault' for the highly-rated defender, but insisted that he will hang up the phone on all interested parties

Juventus have lured Pogba away from Manchester United, says Marotta
The Italian champions' CEO claims that talks are advanced with the French teenager, but rules out a move for Mario Balotelli and Edinson Cavani

Milan will not exercise option to buy Aquilani & Maxi Lopez, says Galliani
The Rossoneri director has revealed that the club will not sign the Argentine on a permanent deal, while they want to renegotiate terms for the Italian midfielder

Inter ponder shock move for Giovinco
The Italy international's future is undecided at present, and the Nerazzurri are ready to snap up the attacker if Parma acquire the remaining 50 per cent of his rights

'Inter have very clear transfer targets' - Stramaccioni
The Nerazzurri coach revealed that the club have their plans for the summer outlined but declined to name any potential transfer targets or new additions to the squad

Juventus can't compete with big European clubs on transfer market, says Marotta
The Bianconeri director has admitted that they lack the financial resources to take on the big guns, and added they will have to look at alternatives to close the gap

Sneijder: Robben should come to Inter
The Nerazzurri star has blasted Bayern over their treatment of the winger, and would welcome his former Real Madrid team-mate with open arms at the Serie A side

Di Natale: I like to be used as a central striker
The 34-year-old revealed his preferred playing position and also believes he is a stronger forward compared to two years ago

Juventus €4m shy of asking price for Verratti, claims Pescara director
It was reported that the Old Lady had already got their man, but the Delfini have revealed that the Bianconeri's bid for the player is not to satisfactory

Napoli should always trouble Juventus in the hunt for trophies, says Maradona
The Argentine, who spent seven years at the San Paolo as a player, was overjoyed after seeing his former side end their 22-year wait for a major piece of silverware

Mazzarri noncommittal on Napoli future
The former Sampdoria boss still has a year to run on his current contract with the Partenopei, but it remains to be seen if he will still be at the San Paolo next season

De Laurentiis ready to welcome Insigne back to Napoli
The Italy Under-21 international has enjoyed a hugely successful spell at Pescara and the Partenopei supremo would like to see him develop even further in the Europa League

Agent: Ederson is a Lazio player
The Brazilian midfielder's representative announced on Tuesday that his client is set to sign for the Italian club and all that is missing is a signature

Ancelotti confirms Paris Saint-Germain interest in Lavezzi
The PSG coach suggested that the Napoli forward is the type of player the club are looking to sign, declaring that a new attacking option is what his team are in need of

Palacio will be an Inter player next season, confirms Genoa president
Enrico Preziosi has revealed that the Grifone have concluded talks with the Nerazzurri on a summer move for the Argentine attacker, but personal terms have yet to be discussed

Julio Cesar withdrawn from Inter squad for Indonesian tour due to fitness problem
The 32-year-old Brazilian goalkeeper was initially included in the squad for the trip to Indonesia, but decided to stay in Milan to continue his recovery from an injury

Playing for AC Milan will be 'another world', says Bakaye Traore
The 27-year-old will link up with his new team-mates this summer and spoke about his anticipation of playing at a higher level and his desire to succeed with the Rossoneri

Allegri: Ibrahimovic & Thiago Silva not leaving AC Milan
The Rossoneri boss has insisted that the club will not consider selling any of their star players this summer as he looks to rebuild his squad around them

Juventus ready to cash in on Giovinco
The Turin giants will purchase the remaining 50 per cent of the attacker's rights from Parma, before cashing in on the Italy international this summer to free up funds

 

[Hamsik]

Sannino will be Palermo boss next season, Zamparini announces

The former Varese coach will sit on the bench of the Sicilian club in 2012-13 after enjoying a good first season in Serie A with the Stadio Artemio Franchi outfit

May 25, 2012 2:26:00 PM

By Luis Mira

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Palermo president Maurizio Zamparini has announced that Siena coach Giuseppe Sannino will take charge of his team next season.

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The 55-year-old coach will replace Bortolo Mutti, who has been released by Palermo six months after succeeding Devis Mangia at the helm of the Sicilian club.

"We found an agreement with Sannino quickly," Zamparini told Radio Marte. "He is our new coach now."

Sannino, who was appointed as Siena coach in 2011 following the departure of Antonio Conte, led the recently-promoted side to a 14th in Serie A.

Palermo finished in 16th place in the table, one point behind Siena.

 

[Hamsik]

Making his mark like Mourinho: Conte contract renewal underlines that Juventus are here to stay

Fresh from leading the Bianconeri to the Scudetto in his first season at the club, the former midfield ace has signed a new deal which will keep him in Turin until 2015

May 25, 2012 8:00:00 AM

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COMMENT
By Mark Doyle

Gianluca Vialli recently claimed that Antonio Conte is “on the same level” as Jose Mourinho. They are certainly on the same page at least, with both having decided to sign contract renewals with their respective clubs in the same week.

Mourinho, of course, took all and sundry unawares on Tuesday by committing himself to Real Madrid until 2016. For a coach who has never spent more than three seasons at one club, it was both a surprising and a significant step.

Conte’s renewal, which ties him to Turin for a further three years, was not in the least bit surprising, but it was just as significant. Indeed, just under a year after returning to the club, the former Bianconeri midfielder already has the Old Lady looking like her old self again.

[TABLE="width: 0, align: right"]
<tbody>[TR="bgcolor: #000000"]
[TD="colspan: 6, align: center"]JUVE'S SEASON STATS[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR]
[TD="colspan: 6, align: center"]

[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR="bgcolor: #D3D3D3"]
[TD="align: center"]Games[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]Won[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]Drawn[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]Lost[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]GS[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]GA[/TD]
[/TR]
[TR="bgcolor: #D3D3D3"]
[TD="align: center"]43[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]25[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]16[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]2*[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]76[/TD]
[TD="align: center"]26[/TD]
[/TR]
</tbody>[/TABLE]
Fresh from a relatively successful season at Siena, Conte took control of a side coming off the back of consecutive seventh-placed finishes in Serie A. That, of course, did not stop the hype machine going into overdrive after a 4-1 victory over Parma on the opening day of the new season. This, after all, is Italy, where the press deal only in reactions of the knee-jerk variety.

Conte, of course, laughed off talk of a title challenge but even after a couple of uninspiring draws against Bologna and Catania, it became impossible to ignore following a stirring 2-0 victory over defending champions AC Milan at Juventus Stadium last October.

Gianluigi Buffon claimed after the title was secured with a 2-0 win over Cagliari in Trieste earlier this month that he had known from the moment he first set foot in Juve’s new stadium that they would win the league. However, it was only after that rousing defeat of Milan in Turin that everyone else came to realise that the Bianconeri, with their new coach, their new home and their new midfield playmaker - Andrea Pirlo - were a force to be reckoned with once more.

Just how powerful a force they were would only become clear during the final third of the season, as for a long time it appeared that Juve’s propensity for drawing games they had dominated would cost them dearly.

However, the Bianconeri had shown right from the off that that they had the stomach for a fight. Conte had instilled in his side a resilience and spirit which meant that they simply refused to admit defeat when they were beaten, as so memorably illustrated in their 3-3 draw with Napoli at the San Paolo in November, a game in which they twice trailed by two goals to one of the best counterattacking sides in Europe.

Old Lady all smiles | Conte and success have gone hand in hand this season
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It was evident again at San Siro in February when Juve came from a goal down (yes, yes, Signor Galliani, it should have been two goals down!) to snatch a precious point at the home of their title rivals.

That doggedness, coupled with their tactical versatility, ultimately proved a winning combination. It takes a big man to admit when one is in the wrong but Conte ditched his much-vaunted 4-2-4 system early on in the campaign and the way in which he trained his troops to switch so seamlessly between 3-5-2, 3-4-3 and 4-3-3 became one of the key factors in their Scudetto success.

Once the goals which they previously had to work so hard for finally began to flow in a 5-0 demolition of Fiorentina, Juventus began to bear the mark of champions and, in truth, they had never looked like losing top spot after usurping Milan courtesy of a trademark free kick from Alessandro Del Piero in a 2-1 win over Lazio on April 11. Indeed, it took an uncharacteristic error from Gianluigi Buffon to allow the Rossoneri back into the title race.

Conte deserves the utmost credit for the way in which they maintained their composure during one of the most intense run-ins in recent years. During his already legendary training-ground team talk back in April, he had urged his players to avoid complacency; to resist the temptation to rest on their laurels; to ignore the praise and plaudits coming their way.

“The reality is the pitch. The reality is sweat. The reality is sacrifice,” he told his men. The reality now, of course, is that Conte and Juventus are back at the summit of Italian football. And, as Thursday’s contract renewal has underlined, neither have any intention of going anywhere any time soon.

* Juventus' Coppa Italia semi-final second-leg clash with AC Milan is classed as a defeat as the Rossoneri defeated the Bianconeri 2-1 over 90 minute to force extra-time​

​

 

[Lavezzi]

Giovinco: I do not know if I will play at Juventus or Parma next term
The Italy international is co-owned by the two Serie A clubs, but as yet he has not been given an inclination of who he will feature for in the 2012-13 campaign

There are five clubs keeping an eye on Ibrahimovic but AC Milan will not sell him, explains agent
The player's representative has played down speculation that his client could leave San Siro this summer, and attempted to clarify comments made about the Rossoneri's finances

No concrete bid for Lavezzi, insists Leonardo
It has been claimed that the French side have offered the Partenopei €26 million for the player, but the Brazilian insists that the proposed deal is very much in its infancy

AC Milan ahead of Juventus in race for Verratti, says Pescara director
The Bianconeri were considered the favourites to land the teenager, but the newly-promoted outfit insist that the Old Lady have lost ground on the Rossoneri

Roma made a higher bid for Palacio but I had already shaken hands with Moratti, reveals Preziosi
The Rossoblu supremo agreed to sell the 30-year-old Argentine to the Nerazzurri but just three hours later the Giallorossi offered €2 million more for the player

Marchisio tired of Tardelli comparisons
The are obvious parallels between the Turin native and the Bianconeri legend, but the 26-year-old has confessed he wants to write his own story

Juventus sign Caceres on permanent deal
The Serie A champions have decided to buy the defender outright after he was able to impress while on loan during the second half of the campaign

Moratti: Paris Saint-Germain's Lavezzi bid is interesting
The Nerazzurri supremo was noncommittal when asked if he will make a big investment to sign the Napoli ace, but confirmed that Rodrigo Palacio will move to San Siro

Ibrahimovic rues AC Milan's 'economic problems'
The Sweden international believes that the Rossoneri will not be able to invest big in summer signings, but stressed that he will not leave the club

Del Piero: Playing for any other Italian team is against my principles
The Juve legend says he will not play for another team from his homeland, and that he trusts everybody at the club to continue their recent success

Sannino will be Palermo boss next season, Zamparini announces
The former Varese coach will sit on the bench of the Sicilian club in 2012-13 after enjoying a good first season in Serie A with the Stadio Artemio Franchi outfit

Inter still had their demons when I was in charge, says Ranieri
The former Juventus boss also revealed that Massimo Moratti was intent on bringing Carlos Tevez to the club in January

Official: Udinese sign Caen centre-back Thomas Heurtaux
The 23-year-old has signed a two-year contract with the Friulian club, following les Malherbes' relegation to Ligue 2

Official: AC Milan sign Gabriel from Cruzeiro
The Rossoneri have confirmed the capture of the young Brazilian keeper, who will serve as backup to Christian Abbiati and Marco Amelia between the sticks

Paris Saint-Germain launch €26 million bid for Lavezzi - report
The nouveau riche Parisians are ready to make a lucrative offer for the Argentine's services in an effort to boost their front line ahead of the next campaign

Serie A's Bosman list: Del Piero, Nesta, Gattuso & all the players available for free in Italy this summer
There are plenty of bargains to be had in the transfer window in Italy, with every Serie A club set to lose players for nothing by June 30

Alejandro Gomez's Inter move hits stumbling block
The Argentine midfielder appeared to be on his way to the Nerazzurri, but the switch has now been put on hold following the departure of Catania's general director

Making his mark like Mourinho: Conte contract renewal underlines that Juventus are here to stay
Fresh from leading the Bianconeri to the Scudetto in his first season at the club, the former midfield ace has signed a new deal which will keep him in Turin until 2015

Milito: I hope Forlan stays at Inter
The Argentine striker hopes that the Uruguayan will remain with the Nerazzurri this summer, while he is relishing the prospect of possibly playing alongside Lavezzi and Palacio

Miccoli: There is only a 50 per cent chance that I'll stay at Palermo
The 32-year-old, who is out of contract next year, insists that he would like to remain at the Renzo Barbera, but admits he could just as easily move on

Verratti will certainly stay at Pescara for another year, declares agent
It was reported earlier in the year that Juventus had already signed the teenager but his representative insists that his client will remain at the Adriatico

Conte calls on Juventus to strengthen squad this summer
The Bianconeri did not lose a single game in winning the Serie A title last season but the 42-year-old former Siena boss is demanding reinforcements during the transfer window

Marotta confirms Juventus' interest in Cavani
The Serie A champions are willing to offer the prolific Uruguay international striker a five-year contract worth €30 million to swap Naples for Turin during the summer

Breno signing not a done a deal, insists Lazio director
The Biancocelesti official was quoted as saying that the Italian club had snapped up the Brazilian defender, but he insists his words were misinterpreted

 

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Juventus reportedly ponder move for Maxi Lopez
The Bianconeri are in the market for a new quality striker and have identified the Argentine as a viable choice in case they fail to sign Italy international Mattia Destro

Inter's Cordoba happy to end career in Indonesia
The 35-year-old centre-back has claimed he was flattered to finish his career in front of thousands of supporters of the club at a friendly at the Gelora Bung Karno Stadium

Palacio: Let's hope that Lavezzi will not go to Paris Saint-Germain
The Genoa striker believes that his compatriot would be a quality asset to the Nerazzurri and is hopeful that the 27-year-old will not move to the Parc des Princes

Cavani: I do not know my future but I feel fine at Napoli
The Uruguayan ace admitted that he is not sure about his future at the San Paolo, but hinted that he may stay on with the club after their Coppa Italia success

Thiago Silva confirms AC Milan stay
The highly-rated defender says that he is not tempted to try his luck in England or Spain but called on the club's board to make a significant investment in summer signings

Agent: Muntari will sign with AC Milan for two years
The representative of the Ghana international claims that his client will sign a permanent deal with the Rossoneri after enjoying a temporary stay during the 2011-12 campaign

Preziosi reveals he has recommended Gasperini to Lazio board
The Rossoblu president claims he has spoken to Bianoocelesti counterpart Claudio Lotito about the possibility of his former coach succeeding Edy Reja

Allegri: Berlusconi has promised that Ibrahimovic & Thiago Silva will not leave AC Milan
The Giuseppe Meazza side's two top players have been linked with a move away from the club, but the Rossoneri trainer has confirmed that the duo will not be sold

Stramaccioni: Inter will build a team to challenge for the Scudetto
The Nerazzurri ended up finishing sixth in the Serie A standings in 2011-12, but their trainer is hoping for vast improvement next term and for his side to be title contenders

Roma make approach for Malaga's Pellegrini
The Giallorossi are looking for a new coach after Luis Enrique's departure, and the Andalusian club's trainer has been contacted in regards to the role

Buffon: Balotelli would fit in at Juventus
The Bianconeri goalkeeper has admitted the controversial former Inter forward would be a success if he signed for the newly-crowned Italian champions

 

[Lavezzi]

Seedorf reveals he could still stay at AC Milan
The former Netherlands international appeared destined to leave San Siro this summer but insists that he could yet sign a new deal with the club

Sabatini hints Zeman closing in on Roma job
The 65-year-old is now the clear favourite to take over at the Giallorossi after a meeting with general manager Franco Baldini to discuss his return to the Eternal City

Ranieri takes over at Monaco - report
The 50-year-old Roman, who was shown the door at San Siro by Massimo Moratti in March, is set to be unveiled as Marco Simone's successor in the coming days

We should suspend football for two to three years because of corruption, says Italian PM
The police investigation into Scommessopoli resulted in Domenico Criscitio being withdrawn from the Italy squad for Euro 2012, while Lazio captain Stefano Mauri has been arrested

Cambiasso: Inter have not lost the hunger to win
The veteran Argentine midfielder insists the Nerazzurri are still on the hunt for silverware and is hopeful that they can bounce back after a disappointing season

Balotelli: I'll buy you dinner if you find another guy like me
The Manchester City striker believes it is virtually impossible for anyone to understand how he feels because so few have been blessed with footballing ability as great as his

Flamini set to sign new deal with AC Milan - report
The midfielder, who missed most of the season through injury, is said to be willing to accept a huge pay cut in order to prolong his stay at San Siro for a further two years

Liverpool lead Reading in race for Juventus star Krasic
The Reds want the winger on loan though the Turin club would prefer to sell, while the Serbian is not keen on a Madejski Stadium switch despite their willingness to buy him

Inter set sights on Dries Mertens
The Nerazzurri are keen to add the Belgium international to their squad next season, and are prepared to include Luc Castaignos in a part-exchange proposal

Napoli keen on Jovetic - report
The highly-rated attacker has caught the attention of the Coppa Italia champions, who could lose their prized assets Ezequiel Lavezzi and Edinson Cavani in the off season

Mihajlovic exiles Ljajic for refusing to sing Serbian national anthem
The Fiorentina starlet, who was set upon by former Viola boss Delio Rossi in early May, remained silent before Saturday's clash with Spain in Switzerland

Conte insists he was not aware of any match-fixing at Siena
It has been alleged that the former Italy international knew about an agreement with Novara to play out a draw in their Serie B clash on April 30 2011, but he claims otherwise

Ibrahimovic is a good man, insists Ambrosini
The outspoken Sweden international has reportedly fallen out with a number of his colleagues but the Rossoneri skipper insists that the 30-year-old is a positive influence

Udinese deny agreement with Juventus for Asamoah
The Zebrette have confirmed the Serie A champions' interest in signing the Ghanaian midfielder, but were keen to stress that a deal is still some way from completion

Coutinho determined to succeed at Inter
The promising youngster impressed on loan at Espanyol in the second half of the season and is now eager to make his mark at the Nerazzurri in the 2012-13 campaign

Taiwo keen to leave AC Milan for Benfica
The Nigeria international spent the past six months on loan at QPR, and is ready to leave the Rossoneri on a permanent basis this summer if the Portuguese giants make an approach

Dunga coy on Fiorentina and Lazio links
The former Selecao skipper has explained that he is open to a return to coaching, but revealed that he is currently resolving a few outstanding family issues

Poland remains in my heart, admits Germany's Klose
The Lazio forward was born in Opole in 1978 but he and his mother joined his father in Kusel seven years later and he ultimately elected to represent his adopted nation

Pizarro reiterates desire to finish career at Roma
The Chilean midfielder spent six years at the Friuli but he has explained that he wishes to settle in the Italian capital as he wants his third child to be born in the city

Dossena agent plays down AC Milan link
The player's representative has admitted that the wing-back's name came up in a conversation with Rossoneri officials, but denied a switch to San Siro is in the offing

I made a mistake in awarding Milan penalty against Inter, admits referee Rizzoli
The Nerazzurri were infuriated with the decision, given goalkeeper Julio Cesar had clearly played the ball before colliding with Rossoneri midfielder Kevin-Prince Boateng

Gattuso would be a bargain for Juventus, argues agent
The World Cup winner's contract with the Rossoneri is just about to expire and his representative has floated the idea of his client joining Andrea Pirlo in Turin

Inzaghi: AC Milan will always be in my heart
The veteran attacker has insisted that he wants to return to the Rossoneri at some point as a director, and added that he's still undecided on his immediate future

Pirlo: Italy are like Juventus
The experienced midfielder feels that the national side are similar to the Serie A champions, and is confident the Azzurri can make the semi-finals in Poland and Ukraine

Maggio: Lavezzi wants to leave Napoli
The Italy international has admitted that he has known for some time now that the tricky attacker is keen to leave the Partenopei

 

[Lavezzi]

De Laurentiis confirms Chinese interest in Lavezzi: It's an international auction

The attacker is expected to part company with the Partenopei this summer, but will only be allowed to leave if a club meets his €31 million buy-out clause

May 29, 2012 6:42:00 PM

By Mark Doyle

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Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis has claimed that there is interest in Ezequiel Lavezzi from all over the globe, including China.

The Argentina international is one of the Partenopei's most prized possessions but the attacker can leave the San Paolo if a club meets his buy-out clause of €31 million.

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De Laurentiis is resigned to losing Lavezzi but insists that he will not be allowed to leave for a cent less than the specified asking price.

"The contract is clear," the Partenopei supremo told Sky Sport24. "The needs of the player will be linked to the talks, but whoever wants 'Pocho' will have to pay the clause.

"However, it is an international auction: there is even interest in Lavezzi from China. But what Ezequiel wants to do will also be decisive."

It has been claimed in recent days that the Coppa Italia winners are looking at both Stevan Jovetic and Sebastian Giovinco as potential replacements for the outgoing Lavezzi, but De Laurentiis insists that it is highly unlikely that either man will end up in Naples.

“I like both, but I would never sign Jovetic because it would be an insult to the Della Valle family [who own the Viola],” the film producer declared. “Giovinco, meanwhile, seems to be heading towards Juventus.”

Lavezzi, who has been capped 16 times by his country, joined Napoli from San Lorenzo in 2007.

 

[Lavezzi]

Pescara president: Zeman will be Roma's new coach
The freshly-promoted Serie A side have confirmed that the successful trainer is on his way out to take charge of the Giallorossi this summer

Caceres: Suarez has asked me about Juventus
The Uruguayan defender has admitted that he has been in touch with his compatriot about the Old Lady, but added the attacker is happy on Merseyside for now

AC Milan keen to re-sign Matri
The Italy international looks set for a transfer back to the club where he started his professional career, with the Old Lady ready to cash in on the attacker

Manchester City lead Liverpool & Tottenham in race for Gaston Ramirez
The Premier League champions have first refusal on the €18 million midfielder until June 6 while his agent has been authorised to talk to Spurs

De Laurentiis confident about Mazzarri renewal
The Partenopei supremo stated that he has a good rapport with his coach and added that he is eager to prolong the 50-year-old's stay at the club for one more year

Gago: I would like to play alongside Riquelme at Boca Juniors
The Italian capital club are believed to be uninterested in taking up their option to buy the midfielder, and a transfer to the Buenos Aires giants could be on the cards

Aquilani eager for talks with new Liverpool boss
The 27-year-old midfielder looks set to return to Anfield after AC Milan decided against signing the Italy international on a permanent basis at the end of the season

Vila is keen to return to AC Milan, says agent
The Catalan full-back spent the past season on loan at former club Espanyol and now feels confident of establishing himself in the Rossoneri first team

Mancini rules out Manchester City move for Ibrahimovic
The Italian worked with Milan's Swedish striker during a successful spell at Inter but insists his forward line does not need strengthening this summer

Inter to offer Juan and Pandev to Napoli for Lavezzi - report
The Nerazzurri remain intent on landing the Partenopei attacker, but they are said to have drawn up a list of alternatives, which includes another Argentine, Alejandro Gomez

Nainggolan hints he is 'ready' to join Juventus
The Cagliari midfielder reveals the Bianconeri are the frontrunners to acquire his signature, but does not rule out the possibility of moving to either of the Milan clubs

Ernesto Paolillo resigns as Inter CEO
The 66-year-old has opted to vacate his post as general director of the Nerazzurri as he believes his shelf life at the club has expired after seven years at the club

Inter target Palermo defender Matias Silvestre - report
The Nerazzurri will be parting company with Lucio this summer and have sounded out the Argentine, who has also been linked with Roma and city rivals AC Milan, as a replacement

I am not leaving Lazio, says Hernanes
The playmaker rejected the notion that he will be leaving Rome in the summer, despite rumours linking him with a move to Arsenal and a number of other English clubs

Arevalo closing in on Palermo switch
The Uruguayan midfielder is only a few details away from leaving Tijuana for the Sicilian side, with a fee of around €3.5 million being speculated by Mexican media

We will not play the Supercoppa if it is not played in China, says Napoli chairman
The Partenopei chief claims that his club will consider not playing the curtain-raiser if the Italian Football Federation move the match to Italy or Juventus stadium

There is a 90 per cent chance that Lavezzi will join PSG, says FIFA agent
The representative believes the Argentine is very likely to move to Paris, and also stated coach Walter Mazzarri will stay with with Partenopei next season

Stramaccioni has signed a new Inter deal until 2015, says Moratti
The young coach has commited his future to the San Siro outfit for three more years after a positive first two months at the helm of the Nerazzurri

Fiorentina would be a great chance for me, says Maxi Lopez
The Argentine international left AC Milan following a six-month loan, and now admits he would like to join the Florence club in the summer

 

[Lavezzi]

AC Milan to sell Robinho, Pato, Cassano or Boateng to hold on to Ibrahimovic & Thiago Silva

The Rossoneri could be forced to cash in on at least one of the four attackers to generate transfer funds without having to sell off Ibrahimovic and Thiago Silva

May 30, 2012 9:43:00 AM

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EXCLUSIVE
By Gaia Brunelli

AC Milan are ready to cash in on one of Kevin-Prince Boateng, Antonio Cassano, Alexandre Pato or Robinho in the summer transfer window in a bid to retain Zlatan Ibrahimovic andThiago Silva, Goalcom can reveal.

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The Rossoneri need to offload several players ahead of the 2012-13 season to generate funds to finance their transfer campaign.

Both Ibrahimovic and Thiago Silva have attracted plenty of interest and their sale would boost the club's cash flow significantly, but the 2011 Serie A champions are desperate to keep hold of their two star players. As a result, they could be forced to let go of at least one of their other prized assets.

Although Boateng, Cassano, Pato and Robinho have all been important first-team members in the past two seasons, Milan see no other option but to sacrifice at least one of the aforementioned quartet, and are willing to listen to offers.

The 22-year-old Pato was close to joining Paris Saint-Germain in the winter transfer window, but the move eventually fell through.

However, PSG coach Carlo Ancelotti remains interested in bringing the Brazil international to the Ligue 1 runners-up, and could make another approach for Pato this summer.

Robinho, meanwhile, has been linked with a return to Santos. Although the Brazilian giants appear reluctant to pay a hefty transfer fee for the attacker and Milan unlikely to let him go on the cheap, the prospect of getting his wages off the books could convince the Rossoneri to part company with the former Manchester City forward regardless of the price.

Furthermore, Boateng, 25, has caught the attention of a number of Premier League clubs, and the sale of the former Ghana international would generate the necessary funds for Milan.

There is no concrete interest for Cassano at this point, but the Rossoneri hope that a fine display at Euro 2012 will help the attacker catch the attention of some of Europe's bigger clubs.