Juve dismiss talk of Buffon exit

Juventus boss Giovanni Cobolli Gigli brushed aside speculation that World Cup winner Gianluigi Buffon, seen here in October 2006, is set to leave the Serie B side, insisting the goalkeeper was a key part of their strategy to return to the top flight next season.

Juventus boss Giovanni Cobolli Gigli brushed aside speculation that World Cup winner Gianluigi Buffon is set to leave the Serie B side, insisting the goalkeeper was a key part of their strategy to return to the top flight next season.

"I don't that that Buffon has an agreement with another club," said Cobolli Gigli. "I think that Gigi, as he has clearly explained, is in a period of reflection.

"We have already reflected on the issue - Buffon is our number one, not only because of the number of his jersey, but because he is our European Footballer of the Year. And I say that with all due respect to Fabio Cannavaro.

"It would be shocking if we didn't do all in our power to hold on to him for the coming years. He's the best keeper in the world."

Buffon was runner-up to Cannavaro in the European Footballer of the Year award.

The 28-year-old has stayed with Juventus despite their relegation to the second division and given an eight-point penalty for their part in the Serie A match-fixing scandal.

Despite their penalty, Juventus are second in the Serie B after ten wins and three draws, a point behind leaders Naples.