Juve seal keeper deal

Former Gunner signs for Old Lady

Last updated: 5th August 2008

Juve seal keeper deal

Manninger: Back in the big time

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Juventus have completed the signing of former Arsenal goalkeeper Alex Manninger on a four-year contract.

The Austrian international spent last season at Siena and did enough to tempt Juventus into a bid for his services.

Manninger, 31, has spoken of his admiration for current Juve No.1 Gianluigi Buffon, while at the same time reiterating his desire to push the Italian all the way for a starting berth.

"I am very happy to have arrived at Juventus," said Manninger, who had been close to finalising a deal with Udinese, according to Juventus. "Here football really counts.

"I have gained a lot of experience playing for smaller sides but I was at Arsenal a few years ago and I wanted to return to a big club at the highest level.

"We all know Buffon's ability and his role in this squad. Only one goalkeeper can play at a time but in a squad of 25 there must be more than one custodian and we have three.

"I'm ready to give as much of a contribution as I can make to this team."