Juve end Alonso hunt

Italians say their transfers are concluded

By Nadia Carminati   Last updated: 15th July 2008

Alonso Xabi

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Juventus have ended their pursuit of Liverpool midfielder Xabi Alonso, saying they have finished their summer recruitment.

The Bianconeri have been linked with Alonso all summer and held talks with the Spaniard over a possible move to Turin.

However, the deal stalled after they failed to agree a fee with Liverpool and Juventus ended up switching targets by signing Christian Poulsen.

Juve president Giovanni Cobolli Gigli says the arrival of Poulsen signals the end of their interest in bringing in Alonso.

Concluded

"Everyone knows that the transfer market ends on August 31," said Cobolli Gigli.

"But if I have to be honest, unless something extraordinary happens, we can say that we have concluded our transfer activity."

Cobolli Gigli believes Danish international Poulsen will prove to be a valuable addition to the squad.

"I am convinced that we have made a good choice by acquiring Christian Poulsen," added Cobolli Gigli.

"This signing is not a bet made by (Claudio) Ranieri but rather a tactical decision taken by Juventus, knowing that a powerful attack can only be supported by a strong midfield."

The news of Juventus' waning interest in Alonso could be a blow for Liverpool as they look to raise funds for a double swoop for Gareth Barry and Robbie Keane.