La Gazzetta dello Sport understands Juventus are struggling to find an adequate replacement for the ailing Ciro Ferrara.

The club's patron, John Elkann, is said to have asked Juventus President Jean-Claude Blanc to fire Ferrara following Saturday's 2-1 defeat at home to Roma.

However, Blanc is apparently reluctant to do so for moral and political reasons, but also because the Bianconeri can't find a successor capable of guaranteeing a return to winning ways.

Guus Hiddink remains the No 1 target, but the sensation is that he would cost too much to lure away from Russia.

Dino Zoff, the club's legendary former goalkeeper, has said that he isn't really interested in taking over the reins again.

Other names on the shortlist like those of Michael Laudrup and Alberto Zaccheroni are viewed as being a tad too risky, leaving Blanc with the option of hiring someone with sentimental ties to Juventus.

Gianluca Vialli fits the criteria, but his friendship with Ferrara is said to be a stumbling block.

Last but not least is Massimo Carrera, the 45-year-old former defender who is currently in charge of the Juventus academy.

However, the last time they tried promoting internally they ended up with Ferrara, making Carrera's candidacy a last resort.