Juventus sporting director Fabio Paratici has scoffed at the idea that Cristiano Ronaldo is finished while praising new signing Matthijs De Ligt.

Ronaldo has been in mixed form of late, prompting speculation that he may leave the Bianconeri next summer.

“Cristiano finished? Don’t make me laugh,” Paratici told Tuttosport.

“Ronaldo had a knee problem that didn’t allow him to perform at his best, but now he’s coming back, stronger than before.

“The Ballon d’Or? I honestly do not know how one can condition such a prize, then again we know that some clubs at international level have more weight.

“For me, Ronaldo also deserved it last season, where he scored fifteen goals in the Champions League, many of which were decisive.

“Ronaldo also deserved the Ballon d’Or this season. He is a competitive animal, we have made a good investment with him, he has improved all of us.

“We must accept his hunger, it is what distinguishes him from others. Will he remain with Juventus? Of course”.

Attention turned to Matthijs De Ligt and his impressive start to his Juventus career.

“The more I see of him, the more I think he is a monster, he’s in another category.

“Do you realize what it means to be a starter at a big club at twenty years old?

“He was immediately thrown into the fray because of the injury to Chiellini, he immediately took on great responsibilities, it’s crazy

“He’s our best young purchase. He will mark an era, I’m sure of it “.