Juventus defender speculation way off the mark

Claret and Hugh have been informed that speculation and reports surrounding West Ham interest in Juventus defender Daniele Rugani are way off the mark.

One source close to the club simply called it ‘fake news’ while another close to club admitted they had never heard of the player before reading the speculation.

Italian journalists Gianluca DiMarzio and Nicolò Schira were some of the first to break the story but we have been told there is absolutely no substance behind them.

Claims made suggested that the Hammers had offered a loan with an option to buy, but Juventus prefered a permanent deal to sell the Italian centre-back and have asked €18M (£16m) saying talks were still continuing.

One report last night suggested Rugani had agreed on personal terms with West Ham United on a five-year contract.

After failing with attempts to sign James Tarkowski from Burnley, Claret and Hugh have been told that the club is not close with any centre back targets as it stands but are actively enquiring about a number of targets.