Ibrahimovic flattered by Juventus interest

PSG striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic has admitted that he was left flattered by reports linking him with a move back to Serie A with defending champions and current league leaders Juventus.

Juventus are looking to add a world-class striker to their ranks over the summer and players like Liverpool‘s Luis Suarez and Napoli’s Edinson Cavani have been repeatedly linked with the Bianconeri. Ibrahimovic, who is under contract with French club PSG until 2015, said of being linked with one of his former clubs:

“If Juventus really want me, it would be an honour for me to play for them. They are a fantastic club with a great team and a great project.

“It’s an honour that they are interested in me, but at this time I am only thinking about PSG and winning the title with them.”

However, former Italian international Marco Materazzi has suggested Juventus to go for Cavani rather than Ibrahimovic. The Napoli striker is currently leading the goalscorer list in Serie A, with 23 goals to his name. Materazzi said:

“For me, Juventus would become more clinical with Cavani rather than Ibra. As I see it, Conte places importance on possession while Ibrahimovic is more of a finisher.

“When there are strong characters in the squad there is not a problem. Maybe you quarrel in the week but at national level he has always done well.”

Meanwhile, Juventus have been fined €30,000 after a section of their fans indulged in racist chants against the Milan players in yesterday’s 1-0 victory over the Rossoneries. Insulting chants directed at Milan players, specially Kevin Prince Boateng, were heard throughout the match and between the 38th and 41st minutes of the first half, a large banner was unfurled displaying outrageous content. Juventus published a statement on their website condemning the behaviour of their fans.