Alonso? I Want Stankovic

Alonso? I Want Stankovic - Ranieri

Juventus coach Claudio Ranieri has revealed his desire to sign Dejan Stankovic in order to add some much needed strength in midfield, despite the fans protesting the Serbian's signature.

The Old Lady have brought in good cover for almost every position this summer, but still have not managed to add a midfielder.

Several players have been on the Bianconeri's radar including Stankovic, Xabi Alonso and Alberto Aquilani. Indeed, Alonso's deal seems to have stalled recently and Stankovic has been tipped as the obvious alternative.

Now, Ranieri has revealed he would in fact prefer the Serbian international and is not worried by the fans' widespread anger.

“I want to bring in a midfielder who will allow me to change and play various tactical systems,” Ranieri told the Corriere Dello Sport.

“Stankovic? He's a player that I like. He has great technical qualities and he can play in four positions in midfield.

“I wouldn't be worried about having Stankovic and I am convinced that, after three or four games, the fans would think of Dejan as one of us.

“He's the complete player and I would like him at Juventus.”

Reports in Italy claim that Stankovic could arrive sooner rather than later if Alonso's potential move to the Olimpico breaks down.

The former Chelsea coach is now likely to go for the Serbian over Alonso as the Inter man would cost much less. Spanish international Alonso is currently mulling over his future and this may ruin the deal, allowing Ranieri to hurry through his desired capture of Stankovic.

Salvatore Landolina