Juventus threat in hunt for Xabi Alonso

Jul 7 2008 by Richard Williamson, Liverpool Daily Post

JUVENTUS have attempted to step up the pressure on Liverpool by insisting they may pull out of the running for midfielder Xabi Alonso.

The Italian Serie A club say manager Claudio Ranieri has two other transfer options in mind.

Juventus had previously confirmed their interest in the Spanish international with club president Giovanni Cobolli Gigli revealing he was set for talks with Alonso’s agent.

However, the clubs have been unable to agree a fee with Liverpool seeing Alonso in the £16million bracket.

Ranieri’s insistence that Alonso is only one of several options he is considering could be seen as an attempt to strengthen his club’s bargaining position after the former Chelsea manager hinted he may pull out of the deal.

“There are more than two names we are considering to strengthen our midfield,” he said.

“We will choose the player who gives us the best opportunity to improve this side.”