Traore - Juve was first choice

Youngster shunned interest from other clubs

By Simone Bargellini   Last updated: 8th September 2010   Subscribe to RSS Feed

Traore - Juve was first choice

Traore: Happy to join Juve

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Left-back Armand Traore has revealed he turned down offers from other clubs in favour of a loan deal at Juventus.

The 20-year-old, who recently departed Arsenal to take up a season-long loan stint with Juve, was officially unveiled by the Serie A giants on Tuesday.

And the Frenchman says a move to Turin was at the top of his wish-list after deciding on a spell away from Emirates Stadium.

Proposals

"I chose Juventus, although I had other proposals," said Traore.

"Juve is a very big club and after I heard about the possibility of coming here I was very happy."

The stopper also drew comparisons between Juve and Arsenal, citing them both as prestigious clubs.

"There aren't many differences between Arsenal and Juventus," he added. "Juve have won more titles, but both clubs are important."

Injury problems hindered Traore in his attempt to establish himself with the Gunners last season, but the youngster insists those fitness woes are behind him after undergoing a physical examination at Juve without a hitch.

"It's up to me to prove my value," he said. "I'm not at the top yet, having had some problems with tendons.

"But I passed a physical test and I'm ready to play on Sunday."

Opportunity

Defender Leandro Rinaudo was also presented at Juve on Tuesday after arriving at the club on loan from Napoli in August.

"At 27 years old I have the opportunity to receive this important call and try to honour it," said Rinaudo.

"Coach (Luigi) Delneri already knows me and knows that great serenity is my strength.

"I give my best every day. I am ready to make big sacrifices to be available to the team and deserve to stay here."