Speculation is rife that Juve have joined the race to sign the Spain international, who they tried to tempt to the Stadio Olimpico last year.

However, Cobolli Gigli claims they are not in the hunt for Alonso, who has also been linked with Barcelona and Real Madrid.

"There are a lot of names for midfield but not that of Xabi Alonso," he said. "I learnt from the press about our interest for the Spanish player.

"He's a great player but I think that to say that I have read his name in the papers says it all."