Juventus are being closely linked with a move for Roma centre back Kostas Manolas.

The Bianconeri are inevitably in the market for new defenders following Andrea Barzagli’s announcement that he’ll retire at the end of the season.

Giorgio Chiellini is expected to remain for another year while Martin Caceres’ contract was only expected to run until June 31st.

Rome based journalist Roberto Renga reported that Juve were on the verge of completing a deal for the 27-year-old just yesterday with the Bianconeri prepared to pay his 35m release clause.

Renga went on to report that Juve and the player were expected to meet but the club have since put a hold on the potential move, although there’s no clear indicator why.

The obvious suggestion is that with five games of the calendar remaining, and with Juve still to play Roma, who are in contention for 4th place, an announcement of the move may risk disruption to the player and Roma.

Other Italian TV channels and papers have also linked Juve to the Greek international over the course of the last 24 hours.