Friday, 29th August, 2014
Juventus boss Massimiliano Allegri has insisted that Arturo Vidal remains crucial to his plans, despite fresh speculation that Manchester United will launch a bid to take him to Old Trafford before the transfer window slams shut.
Manchester United have been linked with Vidal throughout the summer and manager Louis van Gaal admitted last Sunday that he would like to sign the Chile midfielder.
But Juventus have been playing hardball and have continued to insist that the 27-year-old is not for sale.
Today, at a press conference, Allegri reiterated the stance and underlined just how important Vidal is for the side.
"We have reiterated several times, both the management and myself, that Vidal is a fundamental player and he will stay at Juventus", Allegri explained.
relatedNewsStory
The former AC Milan coach also calmed talk about Vidal's knee injury, which he had been declared to be fully recovered from by Juventus CEO Giuseppe Marotta only recently.
And regardless of whether Vidal has fully shaken off the niggle, Allegri will be careful, in view of his importance for Juventus.
"Vidal worked well this week [in training]. His knee needs to be managed, but he could start tomorrow [against Chievo Verona]."
Don't bet on football until you've visited Inside Bet! Interesting markets, top tips, betting facts – get all the info before you bet.
