Juventus end Julian Draxler pursuit

The 24-year-old is heavily linked with a move away from Porto following his refusal to sign a new contract, with his existing deal due to expire in June 2016.

Juventus could be set to swoop for Porto left-back Sandro who is in a contract dispute with the Portuguese outfit.

The Italian giants are in search of a replacement for the departed Arturo Vidal, who occupied the the trequartista role in manager Massimiliano Allegri’s preferred 4-3-1-2 scheme last season.

“I think we can close a deal for Alex Sandro on Wednesday”, Marotta told reporters.

“We’ve got 10 days to find a player other than Draxler and wrap things up with Alex Sandro“.

However, whether it is the competition for his signature or the price tag, Juve director general Giuseppe Marotta has confirmed that they will now turn their attention elsewhere, adding that a playmaker is being lined up.

I know him pretty well and have already called him up for Brazil in the past. [Ilkay] Gundogan was a target, but I don’t think it’s feasibile.

“Maybe Cuadrado will be on the market”.

Last season’s top-scorer Carlos Tevez has left the Old Lady, but Marotta is sure Paulo Dybala and Mario Mandzukic can fill the void.

“They’re two signings we really wanted”.